HC Deb 25 May 1882 vol 269 cc1593-4
MR. DILLWYN

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether any promise was made to Cetewayo, on behalf of the Imperial Government, that he should visit England; and, if so, whether the proposed visit has been abandoned with his consent?

MR. COURTNEY

In the absence of my hon. Friend the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, I have to state that in September last Sir Hercules Robinson was directed to inform Cetewayo that Her Majesty's Government were disposed to entertain his request to visit England and would consider what arrangements could be made to meet his wish. Government must exercise their own discretion as to the time, which is at present considered inopportune; and they do not hold themselves bound to allow the visit if it would ap- pear likely to produce consequences dangerous to the peace of Zululand.

MR. DILLWYN

asked whether Cetewayo had been consulted?

MR. COURTNEY

As there was no promise made, I apprehend that there is none to be withdrawn.