HC Deb 03 September 1880 vol 256 cc1185-6
MR. HOPWOOD

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, What arrangements have been made in the case of Cetywayo to give effect to Lord Kimberley's promise, "that he ought to be allowed full access to his friends, and at liberty consistent with safe custody?"

MR. GRANT DUFF

We have not received any recent details as to Cetywayo; but the Governor of the Cape telegraphed, in reply to Lord Kimberley's instructions which I mentioned some time ago in the House, that those instructions would be carried into effect. Still later my noble Friend sent a despatch which has been laid on the Table, and will be shortly in the hands of hon. Members. From it I will read a passage which will, I hope, be satisfactory to my hon. Friend— I have the honour to invite your attention to the arrangements which Her Majesty's Government would desire to see carried out in connection with Cetywayo's supervision and maintenance. Although I am confident that your Ministers will readily give effect to the wishes of Her Majesty's Government in this matter, it should he understood that the care of Cetywayo falls in an especial degree within the responsibility of the Governor, and it will he desirable that you should frequently satisfy yourself, either by visits or by reports made to you personally, that his condition and treatment are in all respects as satisfactory as the circumstances permit. I particularly desire that, unless for some strong reasons, those who desire to visit Cetywayo, and whom he desires to see, should have ready access to him. He should be informed without delay of any application to visit him which may he made by any person professing to be his friend, or to he charged with any communication which may he of interest to him, and if Cetywayo expresses a desire for the proposed interview it should he allowed, provided that the person applying is of respectable character, and it is not apprehended that he has any improper designs. Every case in which there is any doubt as to allowing an interview should be referred to you, and if you decide that the interview should not take place, I request that you will furnish me with a full explanation of the reasons for which it has been refused.