§ 25. Mr. DAYasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs to what extent 715 the administration of Swaziland has provided funds for advances by way of loans for the tobacco growers, including native growers, in Swaziland; what is the method of consultation with the natives on matters which directly affect their interests; and whether the present system of ascertaining their views has been working satisfactorily?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)Advances to Swaziland tobacco growers (including native growers) are made by the local tobacco co-operative society in respect of the annual crop delivered by them to the society for disposal. Funds for these advances are provided by loans from the administration. One of the directors of the society is appointed by the Resident Commissioner for the purpose, inter alia, of looking after the interests of native growers. I have no reason to suppose that this arrangement has not worked satisfactorily.
§ Mr. DAYHas any application been made by the native chief or his council for an increase in the grant to the tobacco growers?
§ Mr. MacDONALDI should have to inquire into that.
§ Mr. DAYIs any alteration contemplated in the means of communication between the native chief and the administration?
§ Mr. MacDONALDI have said that my opinion is that the present method of representing native interests is working satisfactorily.