MR. GORSTasked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to negotiate directly with Dr. Jorissen as representing the Transvaal Government without the intervention of Her Majesty's High Commissioner of South Africa?
MR GLADSTONESir, in answering this Question I wish to say that no negotiations are going on between Her Majesty's Government and the Transvaal Government on this subject. The communications that have taken place re- 1642 cently, or that may have to take place, would be of quite a different character. The Government does not yet know the precise object of Dr. Jorissen's visit to this country; but there would be no disadvantage—on the contrary, there would seem to be some advantage—in entering into communications with him. As regards the High Commissioner, it is not a matter of necessity that negotiations with the Transvaal Government should be conducted through the High Commissioner. Fortunately, Sir Hercules Robinson is expected in this country early in May; and, therefore, we shall have the opportunity of hearing his views on the question at large, and likewise any suggestions he may have to make to Her Majesty's Government with regard to it.
§ SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFFasked whether Dr. Jorissen would, during his stay in this country, enjoy the privileges of a Diplomatic Agent of a Foreign State?