HC Deb 14 December 1927 vol 211 cc2312-3
60. Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the provisions of the Bill to amend the Stock and Produce Theft Ordinance, published in the official gazette of Kenya, 8th November, 1927; and whether the Bill has been submitted to the Secretary of State for his approval?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I am aware of the provisions of the Bill and I agreed to publication preparatory to its introduction into the Legislative Council.

Sir R. HAMILTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to keep a close watch on this proposed legislation, which contains ideas so contrary to our ideas?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I cannot quite agree with my hon. Friend in the latter part of his statement, but the terms of this Ordinance will be carefully examined. It follows, I understand, Ordinances applying to other crops; it applies not only to coconuts in Kenya, but to other crops.

Sir R. HAMILTON

Is it not a fact that a native is to be held guilty if he is in possession of produce, unless he proves himself innocent?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Yes; if he is in possession of certain categories of produce, he has to show how he got possession.

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