§ 77. Sir R. HAMILTONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the designation native reserves, which is not used officially in respect of areas in the occupation of native African populations in our tropical African colonies, protectorates, and mandated territories, other than Kenya, is officially applied to such lands in Kenya; and, if so, whether, in view of the principles and implications of the White Paper of July, 1923, he will consider the desirability of discontinuing the use of that designation of parts of Kenya?
Mr. THOMASWith the exception of the Masai Reserve in Tanganyika, the system of native reserves is peculiar to Kenya, where it has been very successful in preserving to the tribes concerned land sufficient for their present and probable future requirements. I am not aware that the system conflicts with the grin ciples of the White Paper of July, 1923, but as the whole land question is to be the subject of inquiry, I do not think it necessary to give consideration to the point at this stage.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYCan the right hon. Gentleman give the names of the Committee that are going to assist him?
Mr. THOMASI cannot give the names, because several who have been invited have not yet replied. I will give both the names and the terms of reference as soon as possible.
§ Mr. N. MACLEANIs the reason why the right hon. Gentlemar cannot give the names because he has exhausted the list of experts?
Mr. THOMASNo, I will not say that, because I have yet my hon. Friend the Member for Govan in reserve.
§ Mr. MAXTONAm I to understand that, contrary to expectations, the Member for Govan (Mr. N. Maclean) is not on this Committee?