§ 99. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has now received a report on the resolution passed by employers at Limuru, near Nairobi, on 20th May, to the effect that all who took part in the recent strike should be summarily dismissed and should not be reengaged by any employer, except at wages reduced by at least one-quarter; what were the average wages paid by these employers; for what hours of work; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe Acting Governor of Kenya has confirmed that such a resolution was passed. The average wages paid in the area run from 16s. to 18s. a month, rising by increments to 25s., plus food and housing valued at 15s. to 19s. a month. The average daily task rarely exceeds five hours, though herdsmen may remain on duty for longer periods.
I am strongly opposed to victimisation, but I must point out that many strikers, who were in occupations scheduled under the Essential Services Ordinance, committed an offence and broke their contracts by striking without notice. They were, therefore, liable to dismissal. The number of dismissals at Limuru was not significant and although some dismissed men were re-employed at slightly reduced wages, there was no general reduction and prevailing rates have, on the average, risen slightly owing to a shortage of labour.