§ MR. BAUMANN (Camberwell, Peckham)asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether Lobengula's country is included in the British Protectorate in South Africa; and, if so, whether the Secretary of State has received information from the High Commissioner relative to a concession of all mineral rights in Matabeleland and Mashonaland to an English Company; whether such concession has been sanctioned by the High Commissioner; and, whether it is a fact that payment to the Chief Lobengula for this concession has been made by a large supply of arms and ammunition?
THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Sir JOHN GORST)(who replied) (Chatham)said, as has been frequently explained to the House during the present Session, the protectorate over part of Khama's territory, which is distinct from that of Lobengula, does not include the territory of the latter. The Secretary of State has been informed that a concession of the nature referred to has been granted to a Mr. Rudd. The High Commissioner has no power to sanction concessions granted by Lobengula, who is an independent King. It has been stated that £100 per month, in addition to a number of rifles, will be the consideration for the reported concession. On these points the Secretary of State is in communication with the High Commissioner.