§ Sir G. Foxasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the present extensive smuggling of diamonds out of Tanganyika territory; what police personnel are available in the diamond-bearing territory of Tanganyika to prevent such smuggling; and what steps are under consideration to improve police activity in this connection.
240W
Mr. Creech JonesI am aware that some diamond smuggling is taking place. The Tanganyika Government are doing what they can to suppress this traffic, and the police force in Shinyanga is to be reinforced as soon as quarters have been completed for the additional personnel. To facilitate control, a Bill to amend the Diamond Interests Protection Ordinance has been drafted, and will be introduced in the Legislative Council in December. During the past five months, 22 persons have been arrested on charges of diamond smuggling. Of these suspects, 6 have been convicted, 6 acquitted, and 10 are still awaiting trial.