§ 57. Mr. WATTasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the value in timber rates of the forest concession recently given, or about to be given, in the Mau Forest adjoining the Uganda Railway in the Highlands of British East Africa?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Colonel Seely)I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the forest concession in the Eldama Ravine. The question of what timber rates are to be charged in this case is still under consideration.
§ Mr. WATTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that half a million has been given away by this concession, and will he represent that to his Department?
§ Colonel SEELYI am not aware of that. If my hon. Friend has any point to bring to the notice of my right hon. Friend, I shall be glad to convey it to him.
§ 58. Mr. WATTasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what measures he proposes to adopt to ensure the conservation of the Government forests in the Highlands of British East Africa, other than the forest for which a concession has already been given by his Department, so 1413 as to preserve the water streams and the timber for the use of the people of that country under proper regulations?
§ Colonel SEELYThere is a Government Forestry Department in the Protectorate, and certain steps have already been taken for the conservation of the Government forests throughout the country. The matter was discussed with the new Governor before his departure from this country, and he will, no doubt, adopt further measures if, after investigation on the spot, he considers them necessary.
§ Mr. WATTCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether his Department can give us an assurance that his Department will be consulted before further concessions are given of this nature?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is not my Department, but I will convey that view to my right hon. Friend.