HC Deb 19 November 1968 vol 773 c1088
4. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what progress has been made under the 400,000 acre resettlement scheme in Kenya; and what agreement has been reached over the assessment of the current market value of farms and other land.

Mr. Prentice

So far as the first year of this programme is concerned, I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer I gave in reply to his Question on 18th January, 1968. Under the second year purchase programme, 51 farms have been valued. Fifty offers to purchase have been made by the Agricultural Development Corporation, of which 35 have so far been accepted, while three have been refused.

Valuations are proceeding satisfactorily on the same basis as previously.—[Vol. 756, c. 1927.]

Mr. Wall

I welcome the progress of this scheme. However, can the Minister confirm that it will continue for its full four years and that approximately 100,000 acres of land will be brought forward for resettlement each year?

Mr. Prentice

I can confirm that it will continue. Negotiations on the third year of the programme are expected to take place shortly.