HC Deb 23 February 1885 vol 294 cc1022-3
SIR HERBERT MAXWELL

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, What progress has been made in the negotiations for the establishment of the Congo River Commission; how far the claims made by the Government of the King of Portugal have been abandoned or recognised; what concessions have been made by Portugal in favour of the International Association; and, whether the International Association has received formal recognition from Her Majesty's Government?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

The establishment of an International River Commission has been provided for by the Conference; but, pending the issue of the final Act, no steps have been taken for constituting it. The Portuguese Government has abandoned its claims to the north bank of the Congo, while retaining those to the south bank, and to the districts of Kabenda and Molembo. The definition of these claims and concessions is contained in a Convention signed on the 14th instant between Portugal and the Association, which now awaits ratification. The International Association was formally recognized by Her Majesty's Government in a Convention dated the 16th of December last. Papers will be laid.

SIR HERBERT MAXWELL

Will the Agreement referred to be laid before Parliament, in accordance with the pledge given by the noble Lord last summer?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

The pledge given was by the Prime Minister, and referred to the Congo Treaty, which is now abandoned.

SIR HERBERT MAXWELL

May I remind the noble Lord that last summer he told me that there was no intention of recognizing the Association?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

At that time there was no such intention. But, owing to the Conference, the whole matter entered into a new phase.

SIR HERBERT MAXWELL

repeated his Question.

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

If the hon. Baronet refers to the state of things which then existed, which will be seen in the Papers which will be laid upon the Table, he will see what has happened since then.

SIR HERBERT MAXWELL

I will repeat the Question whether it was the Government's intention or not?