HC Deb 20 May 1936 vol 312 cc1184-5
39. Major MILNER

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can assure the House that in any negotiations between the Kikuyu tribe and the Kenya Government concerning the offer by the latter of further land or cash in exchange for land hitherto or formerly of Kikuyu ownership, which is now to be included in areas scheduled for settlement by Europeans only, the Africans concerned will be provided with professional advice of a legal and/or actuarial character, or will be allowed to engage such professional assistance themselves?

Mr. J. H. THOMAS

I have no information as to the arrangements which are being made to investigate the claims of natives living on alienated lands, but I will bring the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion to the notice of the Governor. I have no doubt that all proper assistance will be welcomed.

Major MILNER

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that the natives will not be fobbed off with quite inadequate compensation?

Mr. THOMAS

I cannot give any guarantee about being fobbed off, but I have already indicated to the hon. and gallant Member that his suggestion, namely, that adequate representation, which means, in other words, a fair chance to everyone whatever change is made, will be accorded to the natives as it will be to the white population.

Major MILNER

Will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to inquire whether they may have professional assistance, as asked in the question, and will he let me know?

Mr. THOMAS

I have already said that I will communicate the suggestion of my hon. and gallant Friend to the Governor. I will certainly communicate with him direct.