§ 18. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to alleviate the unemployment situation in Kenya.
§ Mr. MaudlingThe Kenya Government, in consultation with Her Majesty's Government, have been able, partly by adjusting their development plan, to increase the number employed in the public sector. A long-term solution is difficult without increased investment in the private sector, which provides over two-thirds of the jobs, and where much depends on the confidence of investors. 1486 One thousand families have been settled during the last few weeks on land excised from the forests. Planting grants will be made to assist these settlers.
§ Mr. ThomsonWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that the latest estimates about unemployment that have come out of Kenya are very alarming indeed? In the meantime, will he do everything he can to increase assistance in the public sector while awaiting the political developments which, we hope, will encourage private investment?
§ Mr. MaudlingI do regard this question of unemployment in Kenya very seriously, and I can assure the House that the new Government are well aware of it.