HC Deb 27 July 1885 vol 300 cc56-7
SIR ROBERT FOWLER (LORD MAYOR)

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether he has received any recent communication from Colonel Clarke on the state of affairs in Basutoland; and, if so, will he inform the House of their purport?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Colonel STANLEY)

Our last general Report from Colonel Clarke is dated April 22. I fear it would be impossible to state within the limits of an answer the substance of the Correspondence which has taken place with Her Majesty's Representative in Basutoland; but the Papers will be presented to Parliament, and my right hon. Friend will see that tranquillity in Basutoland has been fairly well preserved. I am now glad that my right hon. Friend postponed his Question until to-day, for it so happens that in a telegram, principally on other matters, I have this day heard from the Cape that Masupha has sent in some but tax, and that things in Basutoland are looking rather better.

SIR ROBERT FOWLER (LORD MAYOR)

Will Papers be presented before the close of the Session?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES

I will make inquiry; but I am afraid not.