§ 16. Mr. BANFIELDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the two European representatives of native interests in the Kenya legislative council urged, during a recent session, that the poll-tax age for African males, which is at present 16 years, should be raised to 18 years as in the case of non-African males; and whether he will recommend the Kenya Government to adopt this practice?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI have read the speeches of the two gentlemen referred to. For reasons which were very clearly set out by Lord Moyne in paragraph 13 of his report, the Government of Kenya is unable to agree to raising the present lower age limit of native taxation.
§ 17. Mr. BANFIELDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has anything to report as to the implementing of a recommendation in Lord Moyne's report on the finances of Kenya Colony that native poll-tax should be reduced from 12s. to 6s. subject to certain provisos?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe provisos to which the hon. Member refers include a proportionate increase in the hut tax and the introduction of a cultivation tax and livestock tax. For reasons which I gave in reply to the hon. Member's question on the 14th November, agree with the Governor of Kenya in thinking that the time is not yet ripe for re-casting the system of native taxation.
§ 18. Mr. BANFIELDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the total number of Hut Tax payers as distinct 831 from Poll Tax payers among native taxpayers in 1933 in Kenya Colony?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe information is not in my possession, and I am doubtful whether it could be obtained by the Governor of Kenya without inordinate time and trouble. I will, however, make inquiries and let the hon. Member know the result.