HC Deb 26 June 1882 vol 271 cc400-1
MR. W. FOWLER

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether it is true that intelligence has reached the Government to the effect that the health of Cetewayo is so much affected by his captivity that, unless he is speedily released, his life will be in serious danger; and, whether it is true that he is coming to England?

MR. EVELYN ASHLEY

Sir, in reply to the first Question, I can only say that all the intelligence of that nature we have got is contained in the Blue Book already before the House. With regard to the second Question, it is perfectly true that Her Majesty's Government, after consultation with Sir Henry Bulwer, have come to the conclusion that there is no longer any reason for postponing the promised visit of Cetewayo to England; and instructions have been sent to Sir Hercules Robinson to take the necessary steps, and to inform Cetewayo that this visit in no way commits the Government as to its future course.

SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether any dispatches on the subject will be presented, or how we shall know in what way and why Sir Henry Bulwer has changed his opinion?

MR. EVELYN ASHLEY

The communications are telegraphic, and I should think there would be no objection whatever to laying them on the Table.

SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH

May I ask if Sir Henry Bulwer has changed his opinion?

MR. EVELYN ASHLEY

He has simply conveyed his concurrence to bringing Cetewayo to England. His detailed opinion is not before us.

COLONEL MAKINS

May I ask where the sable Monarch will reside when he is in this country?

[No reply was given to the Question.]