§ 26. Mr. Pargiterasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what were the reasons for the hostile demonstration against the Government African surveyor during the course of his surveying the proposed Kasikisi township on the shores of Lake Mweru in the new Luapula Province on 22nd February in Northern Rhodesia; and what steps have been taken by the Government of Rhodesia to prevent further outbreaks of hostility.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe demonstration was inspired by persons trying to undermine the position of the Native Authorities and Chiefs, and to impede the 7 Government plan, in which the Native Authorities and Chiefs are fully co-operating, to develop the Luapula Province for the very obvious benefit of the local African population. Police reinforcements were moved into the area and officers of the Provincial Administration and the Native Authorities have taken steps to make Government policies even more fully understood locally. The situation is now normal.
§ Mr. PargiterIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that no African was consulted in the planning of the new townships? They were merely presented with the plans afterwards, and is not their resentment rather natural?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI do not think that is so. The Native Authorities and Chiefs have co-operated in this matter, as I have said.