§ MR. A. M'ARTHURasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether he will inform the House what islands Her Majesty's Government have lately annexed in the Torres Straits, and what 509 stipulations have been made with the Colony of Queensland for the due protection of the Native inhabitants; and, whether it is in contemplation to extend British jurisdiction to the neighbouring mainland of New Guinea?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHSir, the boundaries of Queensland have, since the year 1872, comprised all islands within 60 miles of the mainland of that part of Australia. In 1878 the Queensland Government stated to Her Majesty's Government that if they had jurisdiction over certain small islets and reefs in Torres Straits beyond their existing boundaries, but quite distinct from New Guinea, they could take any steps necessary for the protection of the Natives against pearl-shell seekers or other persons resorting there. This request was complied with. The islets are described inThe Queensland Gazetteof July 19, 1879; and I believe that the necessary measures have been taken by the Queensland Government. There is no intention whatever of extending British jurisdiction over the mainland of New Guinea.