HC Deb 10 February 1943 vol 386 cc1298-9
27. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Commissioner of Lands in Kenya has assured the Legislative Council of the Government's intention of doing everything possible to strengthen white settlement; that the Government has indicated its willingness to provide additional money required for the settlement programme; and whether he is satisfied that these plans include adequate provision for native needs and development?

Colonel Stanley

I have not yet received a report of the debate in the Legislative Council to which the hon. Member refers, but I understand that the Kenya Government have recently given an assurance that there has been no change in policy since the recommendations of the Settlement Committee of 1938 were accepted by the then Secretary of State before the war. This policy involved the provision of the necessary finance by the raising of a loan. The scheme is concerned only with the closer settlement of the Highlands.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that until now all references to further settlement in this area has been in regard to white settlement and not African settlement, and while one is quite important, is not the other just as important?

Colonel Stanley

Yes, Sir; but I do not gather from the reports I have seen that this was an enunciation of a new war policy, but merely a reaffirmation of a particular policy declared before the war.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman find out from the authorities exactly what are their plans regarding native settlement?

Colonel Stanley

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Hannah

Is Kenya willing to receive any Jewish refugees?