HC Deb 02 May 1882 vol 268 cc1942-4
MR. ONSLOW

asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether he can now state to the House what is the object of, and what are the arrangements made for, the visit of Cetewayo to this Country; what is the estimated cost of the visit; whether any provision has been made for the accompaniment of his wives; and, if so, for how many; whether any opportunity will be given to the House for the discussion of the propriety of this visit, which is to be paid for by the taxpayers of this Country, before Cetewayo leaves the Cape; what is proposed to be done with him when he arrives in England; and, what his social position will be?

MR. COURTNEY

rose to answer the Question—

MR. ONSLOW

I rise to a point of Order. I intentionally asked the Question of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as it involves a matter of finance.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. GLADSTONE)

Sir, the Question involves a great amount of detail entirely connected with the Colonial Office, and though I am very both indeed to take objection to any Question being put to myself, yet at times the pressure of the Offices I hold makes it impossible for me to enter into these details in such a manner as to give full satisfaction. I must therefore ask my hon. Friend the Under Secretary for the Colonies to reply.

MR. COURTNEY,

in reply, said, he thought the hon. Member would see that the financial part of the Question was a very small one. As to the object of Cetewayo's visit, the answer was that his health had been seriously undermined. [Laughter.] Hon. Members might laugh; but that was what they were informed by their responsible agents at the Cape—that his health had been seriously undermined by his detention; and it was thought reasonable to accede to his wish to visit this country—a wish that was recommended and endorsed by those who were responsible to the Government in the administration of the Cape. It was also believed that the visit would facilitate the solution of the question of Cetewayo's ultimate destination. As to the arrangements made, it was proposed that he should be accompanied by Mr. Shepstone and an interpreter. He also desired to bring with him three Zulu Chiefs and three attendants. The estimated cost of the visit was from£1,300 to£1,500. He did not desire to bring any wives with him. The hon. Gentleman was no doubt aware that the cost of the detention of Cetewayo at present fell upon this country, and therefore it was only a question of the difference of expense to be added; and that was not thought to be a matter of very great importance requiring a distinct discussion in that House. Then, as to what was to be done with him when he arrived in England, it was pro- posed to place him in quiet lodgings, probably with some gentleman acquainted with Zulu affairs; and great care would be taken to secure him from the intrusion of persons actuated by mere curiosity. He did not think it was necessary to answer the Question as to the social status of Cetewayo, which would not be affected.