36. Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what information he has as to the activities and objects of the expedition of German 933 scientists and experts which has now left Germany for an eight months expedition to East Africa; if he is aware that the stated purpose of the expedition is to carry the German exploratory spirit and German enterprise into distant Africa, as well as to make scientific studies, and that the expedition is to keep in touch with Germany by wireless: and what facilities the British colonial administrations are granting to this expedition, and what guarantees they are receiving that it will not in any way explore the ground with a view to assisting the German Government in case of the transfer of territories?
Mr. M. MacDonaldAs regards the objects of the expedition, I can add nothing to the statements which have appeared in the Press. The Governors of Kenya and Tanganyika Territory have been informed of the proposed visit, but no special facilities are being granted. The Governments of the territories to be visited are fully alive to the necessity for ensuring that there is no undesirable propaganda.
Mr. AdamsIs the Minister satisfied that there is nothing of a sinister nature in connection with this expedition?
Mr. MacDonaldMy answer suggests that if anything undesirable or improper is done in connection with the expedition, the authorities on the spot will give the matter very careful attention.
Mr. Vyvyan AdamsIs my right hon. Friend aware that, in spite of the Government's declaration against transfer, German propaganda persists among the native population of East Africa; and will he, therefore, renew his declaration in unequivocal terms?