§ SIR GEORGE CAMPBELL (Kirkcaldy, &c.)asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether Her Majesty's Government propose to transfer the administration of the part of New Guinea claimed by this country to the Australian Colonies or to Queensland in particular; and, if so, whether, considering the magnitude of the question and its effect on the Native races, an opportunity will be given to Parliament to express an opinion before such a measure is carried 1804 out; and, whether, in any case, the proposed scheme will be submitted for the sanction, of the British Legislature, in the same way that it is to be submitted for the sanction of the Colonial Legislatures?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Sir HENRY HOLLAND) (Hampstead)The Government of New Guinea will be administered by an officer appointed by, and responsible to, Her Majesty's Government, and he will be guided by the instructions of the Governor of Queensland. The Governor of Queensland will be directed to consult his Government upon all matters relating to British New Guinea; but will not be absolutely bound by their opinions. The scheme will have to be approved by the Colonial Governments, and legislation will be necessary in Queensland. The details of the scheme will shortly be placed before Parliament so that an opinion may be expressed upon it before it is carried out; but the formal sanction of Parliament is not required. A vote will have to be taken in due course of time.