§ SIR CHARLES W. DILKEasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether the Cuban insurgents, in their negotiations with the Spanish Government, made terms for the negroes as well as for themselves; whether Her Majesty's Government have made or intend to make any representations to Spain, now that the pacification of Cuba has been effected, with a view of accelerating the progress of emancipation in the Island; whether the scheme for importing Chinese labourers, referred to by Consul General Cowper, is likely to be carried out; and, if so, whether Her Majesty's Government will call the attention of the British Minister in China to the fact, so that official information as to the nature of the emigration may be reported to the Foreign Office?
§ MR. BOURKEWe understand, that under Article 3 of the capitulation, "slaves and coolies at present serving in the insurgent ranks are to be set at liberty." According to the last account which has reached the Government, the pacification of Cuba had not been proclaimed officially. As soon as the pacification of the Island has been effected, Her Majesty's Government will not fail to press this matter upon the consideration of the Spanish Government, reminding them of the promises they have made on the subject. Her Majesty's Government are not in a position to say whether it is likely that the scheme for importing Chinese labourers will be carried out. The suggestion of the hon. Baronet, that the attention of the British Minister in China should be turned to the subject, was anticipated some time ago.