HC Deb 01 July 1953 vol 517 cc389-90
49. Mrs. White

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what compensation is paid to relatives on the death, on active service, of Africans serving with the military forces in Kenya; and when these amounts were last revised.

Mr. Lyttelton

The following rates of gratuity are payable to the heir of a deceased African soldier: warrant officers and staff sergeants, £40; sergeants and below, £30. These rates were reviewed in 1948, and are being considered again.

Mrs. White

Would the right hon. Gentleman ask the Government of Kenya to expedite this matter, which has been under discussion since 1951? It is not a very good way to encourage loyal Kenya Service men, to give such a very low rate of gratuity.

Mr. Lyttelton

I agree with the hon. Lady's desire that a conclusion should be reached.

Mr. Awbery

What are we doing about it?