HC Deb 03 March 1959 vol 601 cc196-7
28. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement about the progress of urban African house building in Nairobi.

Mr. J. Amery

With the completion by the Kenya Government of 1,400 houses this month, the first stage of the city council's plan to provide 5,000 houses will have been achieved. Finance for some 500 more houses, to house 2,500 Africans, has been advanced to the council by the Central Housing Board, and construction is likely to begin in two or three months' time.

The Government propose to invite contractors to tender for a further 3,000 family type houses, on the understanding that in the first place the contractors will provide the capital, which will be repaid over a period of years after an initial moratorium.

Mr. Wall

Does not that reply reflect very great credit on Mr. Amalemba who has stood up to political intimidation and has now proved his ability as Minister?

Mr. Amery

Yes. I am very glad that Kenya has found a Minister who can devote his whole time and enthusiasm to this most important service and give real proof to the Africans of the real value which they gain by participation in the Government.

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