§ MR. MALLOCK (Devon, Torquay)asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether he is aware that Circulars have been issued by a Colonel Graham, inviting young men to go out to Methuen's Settlement, Bechuanaland; whether Methuen's Settlement is under Imperial protection; and, whether Colonel Graham's proposals have been made with the knowledge and sanction of the Government?
THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Sir JOHN GORST)(who replied) (Chatham)said: Her Majesty's Government are aware of the fact that such Circulars have been issued. The district in question is part of the British Possession of Bechuanaland. Colonel Graham's proposals were not made with the previous knowledge, and have not received the sanction, of Her Majesty's Government. All persons who have applied to the Colonial Office on the subject have received information to the following effect:—Nothing but a grant of the unoccupied land will be given by the Colonial Government; and the supply of the other things mentioned in the paragraph which has appeared in the Press—such as a house, 100 head of sheep, 25 head of cattle, two horses, arms, and all necessary agricultural implements—is promised to the emigrants by the promoters of the scheme, to whom you should apply for information, and not, as has been inferred, by Her Majesty's Government. The Secretary of State for the Colonies is not in a position to express any opinion as to the fertility of the land, or the prospects of those who may settle upon it.