HC Deb 26 July 1926 vol 198 cc1672-3
12. Mr. GILLETT

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he can state the most recent figures showing the number of natives employed in Kenya on road-making and the building of railways; and what proportion of such labour is voluntary?

Mr. AMERY

In March, 1926, 9,539 natives were engaged on railway construction in Kenya, all voluntary labourers, and I have no reason to suppose that any compulsory labour is being employed by the Kenya Government on road construction.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is labour employed on the roads in the reserves not by the Government but by the chiefs of the reserves?

Mr. AMERY

Yes; in the reserves there is a certain amount of labour for purely communal purposes employed in the manner indicated.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

That is compulsory?

Mr. AMERY

It is compulsory.