§ 35. Mr. J. Hyndasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the transfer of Meru families from the Mount Meru district has been satisfactorily completed; and whether he is satisfied that the new European farmers are finding their farms viable.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydNo move of the Meru has taken place since the transfer of certain families from the Sanya area of Mount Meru, which was completed in 1951. I understand that of the 19 farming units created in the area as a result of this move, all but four have proved sound economic units.
§ Mr. HyndWhile there is no doubt that the idea of the scheme is a good one, and has brought advantages to African farmers, is it not a fact that a number of Africans have not accepted the scheme, and, therefore, have not been moved, and a number of European farmers find it impossible to work these farms satisfactorily? Will the Minister not consider re-examining the scheme in the light of past experience, particularly if there is no confidence in the United Nations Visiting Mission?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI would ask the hon. Gentleman to read our comments on the Meru recommendations of the United Nations Mission. Of the four farming units not found economic, two have had their rights of occupancy revoked and their future is now before the Government of Tanganyika.