§ MR. KNATCHBULL-HUGESSENasked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether there is any truth in the report that an exchange of territory upon the West Coast of Africa between Great Britain and France is in process of negotiation?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERSir, a correspondence upon this subject has, as my right hon. Friend's own official recollections will, no doubt, recall to his mind, been in progress for a considerable time. I may, however, take this opportunity of stating that the reports which have recently appeared in the newspapers, and which have probably revived my right hon. Friend's interest in this question, are incorrect, and that no conclusion has been arrived at. I need hardly add that the feelings of all parties having a claim upon the consideration of the Government will be fully considered in any arrangement arrived at.
§ Afterwards—
§ SIR JOSEPH M'KENNAasked, When the Correspondence on South African Affairs, and relating to the disputed territory in which the Diamond Fields are situated, will be supplied to the House?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERSir, I am happy to say that some Papers upon the subject are ready, and will be immediately laid upon the Table. They will be an instalment of others that will follow in due course.