HC Deb 02 May 1927 vol 205 cc1253-4
18. Mr. KELLY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if his attention has been called to the illegal employment of child and woman labour in Kenya Colony on the making and upkeep of roads; and will he take steps to put an end to this practice?

Mr. AMERY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. I will consult the Acting Governor on the subject.

Mr. JOHNSTON

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the remarkable allegations made by the Venerable Archdeacon Owen on the subject?

Mr. AMERY

I think they are very remarkable.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is there in the Colonial Office any reply to the articles? If there is, would it not be advisable to publish the reply? The charges are really very startling.

Mr. AMERY

They are also a one-sided statement, and there is a good deal to be said on the other side.

Mr. THURTLE

Is it the fact that the Government resent the butting-in of the Church on this particular matter also?

Mr. AMERY

No, not at all.