HC Deb 06 December 1950 vol 482 cc355-6
38. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why African farmers in Kiambu, Fort Hall and Nyeri in Kenya are prohibited from growing coffee.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The growing of coffee by members of any race in Kenya is strictly controlled, to prevent the spread of disease and maintain the quality of the crop. It is not the case that African farmers are prohibited from growing it in all the areas mentioned in the Question, though they are in some. I am at present awaiting a statement from Kenya giving details of the position and will write to my hon. Friend when it is received.

Mr. Brockway

In view of the desirability of stopping any racial discrimination in this matter, will my right hon. Friend not apply to competent African farmers rules which are permitted in the case of European farmers?

Mr. Griffiths

It is my view that racial discrimination in all things should be diminished and abolished.

Sir H. Williams

Having regard to the fact that the statement on which this Question is based was made in this House three weeks ago, why has there been so much delay in finding out the facts?