HC Deb 17 July 1890 vol 347 cc67-8
MR. BRADLAUGH

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that a law has recently been promulgated in the Orange Free State prohibiting, after the lapse of two months, the residence and trade in such State of Indian merchants, British subjects; and whether the Government propose to take any action in the matter?

THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Baron H. de WORMS,) Liverpool, East Toxteth

Perhaps I may be allowed to answer this question. I have heard that a law has been passed in the Orange Free State prohibiting residence, except by permission, and prohibiting the acquisition of fixed property there in the case of all Asiatic races, other than Cape Malays, but I have not heard that it has been promulgated. The period of grace in the draft law was 12, and not two months. The High Commissioner, acting under instructions from the High Commissioner, has made, and is making, representations to the Orange Free State Government against the provisions of the law.

* MR. BRADLAUGH

I received a telegram late last night signed "Shepstone," from Durban, stating that a law was promulgated on the 15th prohibiting trade and residence of Indian merchants which is to take effect in two months. That is my only ground for putting the question.