Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that 122 soldiers invaded the Ukamba territory in Kenya recently for the purpose of forcibly collecting cattle; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?
Mr. M. MacDonaldOn 7th July 2,500 head of cattle were collected from a small sub-district of the Ukamba Reserve for the purpose of branding those which were to be permitted to graze in the area in accordance with the allotted quota. This action was taken because the natives concerned had adopted an attitude of passive resistance, but I am assured by the Governor that it was carried out in a quiet arid orderly manner by Administrative Officers with the assistance of native police. No soldiers were employed. The cattle were detained, but, as a result of a meeting between the District Officer and the responsible elders on 10th July, it was hoped that the owners of the cattle would be persuaded to acquiesce in the policy of the Government and to take back their allotted quota.
Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what reports he has received of malnutrition owing to milk shortage in the Ukamba territory following forced sales of cattle and of consequent unrest; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI would refer the hon. Member to my reply to a Question on 20th July by the hon. Member for Dewsbury (Mr. Riley).