HC Deb 05 June 1946 vol 423 cc1991-2
40. Mr. William Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what recommendations have been made in the Report of the Northern Rhodesia Land Commission on Native Trustlands; and what action it is proposed to take on this matter.

Mr. George Hall

The recommendations of the Northern Rhodesia Land Commission are long and detailed; and I am sending the hon. Member copies of the two published reports, the first of which relates to the Eastern Province of the Territory in the area of Fort Jameson and the second to the remainder of the Territory. The hon Member will see from the statement by the Northern Rhodesia Government which prefaces the first report that the Government have already accepted the Commission's recommendations regarding the Fort Jameson area, where 120,000 acres are being retained as Crown Land and the balance of 3,600,000 acres available are to be declared Native Trust Land. I am anxious that action should be taken without delay in regard to the remainder of the recommendations and I am about to discuss with the Governor, who has now arrived in this country, certain outstanding points which have been raised locally.

Mr. Williams

Is the Minister aware that the excellent statement which he has given the House this afternoon will give much satisfaction not only to people in this country but to people in Africa?

Mr. Charles Williams

Will the Minister also have copies put in the Library?

Mr. Hall

Yes, Sir.

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