§ 69. Mr. Beswickasked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is satisfied that the food supplies of Swaziland are adequate; whether there is any evidence of malnutrition; and whether famine conditions have existed within the last 10 years.
§ Mr. BottomleyIt is expected that this year's crop will be adequate for Swaziland's food requirements. There is some evidence of malnutrition in Swaziland. Further investigation is, however, necessary before the nutritional position can be accurately assessed. A Nutrition Council has been constituted in Swaziland which maintains close contact with the National Nutrition Council in the Union. Serious conditions existed in the early part of 1945, owing to the failure of local 712 and Union crops. In other years it has been possible to supplement Swaziland crops when necessary by importation from the Union. Grain storage facilities are being provided from the Colonial Development Funds to conserve supplies against future periods of scarcity.