§ 15. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether steps are being taken in Kenya to see that the provisional boundaries of the natives reserves, as described in the "Gazette," are approved by the natives affected; if so, what steps are being taken 1887 to that end; and will the confirmation of these native reserves be made by Order in Council, or by an enactment of the local legislative council which can be repealed again by the same council?
§ Mr. AMERYI understand that in general the boundaries of native reserves are the subject of agreement between the Commissioner for Lands and the Chief Native Commissioner, who is well able to acquaint himself with native views through the local administrative staff. Further, the "Gazette" notices of the proposed boundaries are in the hands of the local officials who have every opportunity of studying the effect on the natives and of consulting them if necessary before the boundaries are definitely proclaimed. It is intended to vest native lands in a trust, the detailed arrangements for which are now being considered by the Governor. The trust would be created by local Ordinance, but it appears to me unnecessary to suggest that the terms of such a trust would be set aside by a later Ordinance, which would in any case not take effect until the pleasure of the Crown was signified.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the security of the natives, in their own opinion, would be much greater if the settlement were made by Order in Council which could not be reversed?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to receive representations on that point?
§ Mr. AMERYI shall be glad to receive any representations which my right hon. and gallant Friend cares to send to me.
§ 28. Mr. MORRISasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the lands reserved for native tribal occupation in Kenya Colony are vested in the native people themselves; and, if not, in whom is the title to these lands vested and upon whom devolves the responsibility of defending these areas against encroachment or alienation?
§ Mr. AMERYAs I have already informed the House, I am awaiting the detailed recommendations of the 1888 Governor of Kenya on the creation of a trust in which these native reserves will be vested. I shall be glad if the hon. Member will repeat his question at a later date.