§ Mr. Pageasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action he has taken upon the communication received by him in March, 1958, from the Tanganyika National Farmers' Union concerning desertions by African labourers, who desert after receiving many free benefits in food, housing, blankets, medical attention, etc., and recoupment of transport costs.
§ Mr. Lennox-Boyd, pursuant to his reply [OFFICIAL REPORT, 15th April, 1958; Vol. 586, c. 10–11], supplied the following information:
I have studied this question in the light of the Governor's comments on the representations made by the Tanganyika National Farmers Union, and I understand there is little evidence to show that desertion of African labour in Tanganyika has increased substantially since the 1st February, 1957, when the Employment Ordinance became effective. Both the Governor and I deplore the extent of desertion of labour in the Northern Province, but I accept his view that the situation cannot properly be remedied by penal sanctions for desertions or compulsory registration as has been suggested. I have informed the President of the Tanganyika National Farmers Union accordingly.