HC Deb 12 February 1959 vol 599 cc1326-7
17. Mr. Stonehouse

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the number of European farmers in the Kenya Highlands; and what degree of training is required before they are permitted to occupy farming land.

Mr. J. Amery

I am asking the Governor of Kenya for information on the first part of the Question. There is no statutory training requirement before farmers of any race are allowed to occupy farming land. Applicants for entry permits to Kenya to farm must, however, satisfy the Principal Immigration Officer that their engagement in farming is to the benefit of the inhabitants generally of the Colony, and applicants for assistance from the European Agricultural Settlement Board to purchase farms must satisfy the Board of their suitability.

Mr. Stonehouse

Is the Under-Secretary aware that it is ridiculous that he should have to seek this information, which is very important in relation to the White Highlands, before he can give a reply of this sort? Why is this great area of land, nearly one-fifth of the good land in Kenya, exclusively reserved for white farming?

Mr. Amery

There is a long history to these matters. I understand that the hon. Member is going to Kenya at the end of the week, and it may be as well for him to inform himself of the position.