26. Mr. R. S. YOUNGasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the inquiry into the claim of the Masai to an area of land known as the one-mile strip, lying to the south of the railway line from Simba to Athi River, and to the fact that the chairman of the Ulu Settlers' Association has disputed the desirability of granting the Masai claim on the ground, inter alia, that the land in question is a potential white settlement area, he will take steps to protect the Masai claims, based on treaty rights, on long occupation, and on the desirability of their having free access to the railway?
§ Dr. SHIELSMy Noble Friend has no information as to the inquiry referred to. The Governor of Kenya will, no doubt, report to him in due course, but in the meantime he will ask the Governor for a statement as to the position.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the recommendation of the Young Commission that certain lands should be reserved for individual cultivation and ownership by the natives?
§ Dr. SHIELSAll those points will be borne in mind.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODI wish to know whether that particular point is being borne in mind.
§ Dr. SHIELSIn view of the right hon. and gallant Gentleman's representations, I will see that it is borne in mind.