HC Deb 08 July 1879 vol 247 cc1865-6
MR. E. JENKINS

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether it is true that the right hon. Gentleman and the Commissioner of Police had interfered to prevent an exhibition of six friendly Zulus at the Royal Aquarium? If so, under what circumstances, on what ground, and by what authority had such interference taken place? He also asked whether the right hon. Gentleman was aware that they were now being exhibited in St. James's Hall, and why no interference had taken place in regard to that exhibition also?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

Sir, I was informed, a few days ago, that an exhibition of friendly Zulus was contemplated at the Aquarium. I am bound to say that I thought that was an exhibition which, under the circumstances, would not meet either with the approval of the country or be consonant with the general feelings of the community. It is not necessary for me to state what powers I possess, or what powers I exercise. What I did was this. I sent for the directors of the Aquarium, who came to see me, and I received from them precisely that which I expected to receive. The moment it was pointed out to them that it might be looked upon as an improper proceeding, they immediately withdrew the exhibition, and there was not the slightest necessity for using coercion of any kind. With regard to the last part of the Question—namely, that these persons are being exhibited at St. James's Hall, I had information of that fact about five minutes before I came down to the House; and I shall certainly see the directors of St. James's Hall, and expect from them the same attention that I have received from the directors of the Aquarium.

MR. CALLAN

Has the right hon. Gentleman received an invitation to a private interview with these Zulus, which, I believe, other Members of the House have received, in common with myself?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

I have received none.

MR. E. JENKINS

asked, under what authority the Commissioner of Police interfered with the directors of the Aquarium?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

The Commissioner simply made inquiries for me, and reported what had transpired.

MR. E. JENKINS

gave Notice that he would call attention to the matter at the Evening Sitting.