HC Deb 27 March 1946 vol 421 cc349-50
23. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what plan he has for replacing Germans by British ex-Servicemen in Tanganyika, in particular in agriculture, mining and industry.

Mr. georģe Hall

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to Germans employed in these industries before the war, as at present few, if any, are so employed. The Tanganyika Government is giving attention to the possibilities of industrial development, in encouraging mining development and arranging for further mineral surveys. It is also examining possibilities of limited non-native settlement where land is not required for African occupation. The claims of British ex-Servicemen to take part in such developments will be given every consideration.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some 5,000 Germans were employed in supervisory capacities of various sorts at the outbreak of war, and were put away at that time? Will he consider the possibility of employing some of the 10,000 officers and other ex-Servicemen in this country who are unemployed?

Mr. Hall

Certainly their claims will be considered, but, as I said in my reply, there are very few Germans, if any, engaged in industry in Tanganyika at the present time.