asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the form and amount of taxation imposed upon the people of Nyasaland; and whether, seeing that in addition to a monetary taxation there is a further imposition of forced labour, he will state for what periods and purposes this labour exaction is, or may be, made?

Mr. THOMAS:

The only tax imposed upon the natives of Nyasaland is the Hut and Poll Tax, which is paid at the rate of 6s. per hut per annum by every native who owns or occupies a hut or huts for any portion of a year, or who resides in the Protectorate for a period exceeding six months in all during any year. I have already furnished the hon. Member with copies of the Hut and Poll Tax Ordinance of 1921, and of the District Administration Ordinance of 1924, which deals with compulsory labour. He will observe from the latter that it is incorrect to speak of forced labour as a further imposition in addition to taxation. I may explain that the provisions of the Nyasa- land Ordinance follow closely the general principles with regard to native labour which were laid down in the case of Kenya in September, 1921, and which met with the full approval of the Conference of Missionary Societies. The despatch to Kenya on the subject was laid before the House at the time in the white paper "Command 1509."

Does not this Ordinance incorporate the principle which the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor took exception to in so far as Kenya was concerned?

Mr. THOMAS:

On the contrary, I am satisfied that it follows precedent.