HC Deb 07 July 1937 vol 326 cc324-5
14. Mr. Banfield

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered the complaint from the North Kavirondo Central Association against the fact that, whereas in 1924 the imposition of the hut and poll tax on old men, women, and the lame, blind, or otherwise disabled was revoked at a meeting attended by the senior officials, in 1936–37 the district officer renewed the collection of taxes from such persons; and what steps it is proposed to take in the matter?

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)

I have not received any such complaint from the association or any other source. The hon. Member may be assured however, that sympathetic use is made by all district officers of the power conferred upon them to allow the remission of the whole or a portion of hut and poll tax in cases where the persons liable to pay are in their opinion without sufficient means.

Mr. Banfield

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the complaint if I send him a copy of it, and will he take it from myself that the complaint is most pathetic and that old people are being forced into terrible circumstances, apparently without either justification or even authority?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I do not like to accept what may be called ex parte statements. The proper course is for any complainant to address a petition to me, or a letter to me, through the Governor, and then he can investigate it and report to me what are the facts. If the hon. Member will inform the petitioner that he should approach me through the Governor, it will be much more satisfactory and save time.

Mr. Banfield

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire from the Governor whether it is not a fact that he has received this petition?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Yes, gladly.

Mr. Lunn

Is the action of this district officer in accordance with the recommendations of Sir Alan Pim, which were accepted by the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Yes, certainly. Not only did the district officer have my orders, but the responsibility and the right to vary the tax in special circumstances.