HC Deb 14 June 1894 vol 25 cc1082-3
COMMANDER BETHELL (York, E.R., Holderness)

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can state under what instrument, if any, France has a right of pre-emption over the Congo Free State: and if this right has been approved by the Signatory Powers to the Berlin Conference of the 26th of February, 1885?

THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir E. GREY,) Northumberland, Berwick

France is understood to claim the right of pre-emption over the Congo Free State in virtue of an agreement of the 23rd of April, 1884, published in a French Yellow Book of that year, with the International Association of the Congo, which subsequently developed into the Independent Congo State. The claim has not been submitted to the Signatory Powers.

*SIR C. W. DILKE (Gloucester, Forest of Dean)

Was the Despatch of the French Government of the 31st of May, 1884, to their Ambassadors abroad communicated to Her Majesty's Government?

SIR E. GREY

I cannot say anything in regard to a particular Despatch without notice.

SIR C. W. DILKE

As this is a matter which is assuming some importance, would there be any objection to lay before Parliament such documents on the subject as have been communicated to Her Majesty's Government?

*SIR E. GREY

There has been no correspondence of our own on the subject, but I will inquire what has been published officially either in France or Belgium, with a view to laying it before Parliament.

SIR C. W. DILKE

Perhaps the hon. Baronet will consider whether, if any Papers are laid before Parliament, he will include those which have passed between Belgium and the Congo State, including the King's will and the alteration in the Belgian Constitution.

SIR E. GREY

That is a question which concerns other Powers. We cannot make public information which they have not made public themselves, but I will inquire what they have made public.

COMMANDER BETHELL

Is it not a fact that although no Despatch was sent the International Association was established in conformity with the concessions of this country?

SIR E. GREY

I cannot say, as all this occurred some years ago, but I will make the inquiries, which I have already promised.