§ 11. Mr. BANFIELDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any steps were taken by the Government of Kenya Colony to carry out the recommendations made by Canon Burns, the representative of the native community in the Kenya Legislative Council, that, on account of the natives' overburdened and poverty-stricken condition, a reduction of the hut and poll taxes by 2s. should be made?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERAny general reduction in the rates of native taxation would necessitate a corresponding reduction in the services rendered by Government to the natives, and is on that ground to be deprecated. The 1829 Governor assures me that the position in each native reserve is being carefully watched, and, if he is satisfied that a definite hardship exists in any particular area, the rate in that area will be reduced.
§ Mr. BANFIELDIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the overburdened and poverty-stricken condition of the natives?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERNo If the hon. member were to visit Kenya he would see that the conditions vary a great deal as between one reserve and another