HC Deb 17 August 1893 vol 16 c413
MR. HANBURY

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies what he intends when he undertakes that Swaziland shall not be handed over to the Transvaal Government without the full and free assent of the Swazi people; and how is it proposed to ascertain the wishes of the Swazi people as distinct from the will or interests of the Swazi King?

THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. S. BUXTON,) Tower Hamlets, Poplar

When I am in a position to communicate and to explain to the House the terms of the Convention, the hon. Member will see what I meant by saying that no arrangement in regard to the future government of the Swazis will be come to which does not involve the full and free assent of the Swazi nation. Until then I fear I cannot amplify my statement.

MR. HANBURY

When will that time arrive?

MR. S. BUXTON

I hope very soon. I am in communication with the Transvaal Republic.

MR. TOMLINSON (Preston)

Have similar steps been taken to ascertain the wishes of the British residents in Swaziland?

MR. S. BUXTON

They are in a totally different position, and it was not necessary in their case to take such steps. If the hon. Member will wait till he sees the Convention, he will find that their rights and privileges have been carefully maintained.