HC Deb 15 April 1958 vol 586 c10
8. Mr. Page

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is satisfied that sufficient police protection is provided against cattle theft in the Northern Province of Tanganyika, and that effective action is taken to apprehend the thieves; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am satisfied that the Tanganyika Government are taking all available measures to safeguard the stock of farmers of all races in the Northern Province, having regard to police commitments elsewhere in the Territory and the very large area to be covered.

Mr. Page

Is it not a fact that, normally, the stolen cattle can be traced to some tribal area or another, but that, according to our concepts of the law, it is extremely difficult to prove the guilt of the thief? Would recognition of some tribal compulsory compensation be acceptable to responsible tribal leaders?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I will put that suggestion to the Governor.