§ 32. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that there is a grave danger of further crises and famine conditions in Kenya; if a statement on the Government's food policy can be given; and whether, in view of recurrent shortages, adequate attention is being given to the encouragement of agriculture in the reserves rather than drawing off native labour to work in the export trades.
§ Colonel StanleyYes, Sir. I am well aware of the difficult food position, not only in Kenya, but elsewhere in East Africa, which is very largely due to repeated failures of the rains in the last two years. My latest information reports some improvement, but the position this year must depend on the long rains season now impending. Meanwhile the imports of foodstuffs already arranged to cover the deficiency are continuing. As regards the second part of the Question, while every effort is being made by the Governments to ensure maximum food production, it is one of my main anxieties at present to strike the right balance between the need for local food production and for the production of certain commodities which are of vital importance to the general war effort.
§ Mr. SorensenSurely the right hon. and gallant Gentleman appreciates that the labourers in Kenya cannot possibly produce the articles required unless they are properly fed. Is not that, therefore, the primary consideration?
§ Colonel StanleyOf course it is, but they may be fed from food which they produce themselves, or, as was the case last year, with the assistance of imported foodstuffs, and it may be worth while to import foodstuffs which we can get elsewhere and go on producing things like sisal which we cannot produce elsewhere.
§ Mr. SorensenIs there adequate importation of these foodstuffs?
§ Colonel StanleyYes, so far, the programme is amply fulfilling the demands of the area.