HC Deb 24 March 1947 vol 435 cc129-30W
19. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Food what steps have been taken to deal with dangerous or marauding game in, or adjacent to, the areas to be cleared for the groundnut scheme in Tanganyika.

Mr. Strachey

A big-game hunter has been engaged to protect the people on the job during the initial stages. Later on it may be necessary to employ native game scouts as well in the outlying districts. The managing agents will be acting in the closest co-operation with the Game Department of the Tanganyika Government.

20. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Food whether requirements in the way of mechanical implements and appliances for the groundnut scheme in Tanganyika are being promptly met; and how much of the machinery necessary to start the Tanganyika scheme has arrived in that territory.

Mr. Strachey

Mechanical equipment, appliances and stores to the value of over £100,000 have already arrived in Tanganyika, more is on the way. On the whole, and considering the difficulties of supply at the present time, I do not think that we should be too dissatisfied. At any rate a start has been made.

26. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Food how many Valentine tanks are at present being converted to bulldozers for use in the East African Groundnut Scheme.

Mr. Strachey

One Valentine tank has been converted for bulldozing tests in connection with the East African groundnuts scheme. From preliminary trials it seems unlikely that these tanks will be suitable for the work.