HC Deb 18 May 1938 vol 336 cc403-4
52. Mr. Lunn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered a petition signed by members of the Wakamba tribe, in Kenya, protesting against the compulsory selling of their cattle at low prices to the canning factory near Athi River station, in Kenya; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. M. MacDonald

I understand that this petition was addressed to my predecessor through the Governor. It has not yet been received in the Colonial Office, and I am, therefore, not yet in a position to make any statement on the subject.

Mr. Lunn

Will the right hon. Gentleman give serious consideration to this petition, which implies that the Government are compelling natives to sell their cattle to a privately-owned firm at very low prices instead of going to the ordinary market and getting the market prices for them?

Mr. MacDonald

Naturally I shall give careful consideration to anything that is said in this petition.

Mr. Macquisten

Is it not monstrous that such a thing should be done? It is as bad as the Marketing Boards in this country.