HC Deb 11 March 1936 vol 309 c2109
15. Mr. DAY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the present tribal relations on the Kenya-Abyssinian frontier are satisfactory; and can he state the last occasion on which any British subjects were seized by Abyssinians on this frontier and taken into Abyssinia?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

On the whole I consider that conditions are satisfactory. With regard to the second part of the question, the latest occasion of which I have any information was in September, 1933.

Mr. DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any action was taken in that case?

Mr. THOMAS

I think that in that particular case five children were kidnapped, but steps were taken to restore those children. That was the last case, in 1933.

Mr. DAY

Are the local tribes now co-operating to improve the conditions?

Mr. THOMAS

I made inquiries and I have given the answer with regard to children. If the hon. Member will put down a question on the details, I will see whether I can get them.