HC Deb 10 July 1877 vol 235 cc1045-6
MR. E. JENKINS

gave Notice that, on going into Committee on the South Africa Bill, he would move— That this House, while approving generally of the principle of this Bill and of the Con- federation of Colonies which are contiguous and associated in interest, regrets that no sufficient reason has been given by Her Majesty's Government whereby the initiative of a scheme of Confederation should proceed from the Imperial Government, and not from the Colonies themselves.

MR. W. E. FORSTER

I wish to ask the right hon. Gentleman a Question of which I have given him private Notice with regard to the further progress of the South Africa Bill and the Supplemental Vote in reference to the annexation of the Transvaal. The Under Secretary for the Colonies, in moving the second reading of the Bill yesterday, said a further explanation had arrived from Sir Theophilus Shepstone with regard to the grounds on which he has annexed the Transvaal; and the hon. Gentleman informed the House that that statement received the full approbation of the Government. I beg, therefore, to ask the right hon. Gentleman, Whether there will be any objection to the production of that despatch, as the House certainly ought to be acquainted with its contents; and, whether he will allow it to be circulated either before the Vote is taken, or before a further stage is asked for the Bill?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

The right hon. Gentleman has only just now given me Notice of the Question, and I have not been able to see my hon. Friend the Under Secretary, or Lord Carnarvon. I believe, however, that further communications have been received. I will ascertain what they are, and I have no doubt we shall be able to lay them on the Table before the Vote is taken, and the Bill advanced another stage.

MR. MUNTZ

inquired, Whether there would be any objection to lay upon the Table a map representing the annexation?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

I will see whether that can be done.