§ MR. M. M. BHOWNAGGREE (Bethnal Green, N.E.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that the British Indian subjects of Her Majesty residing in South Africa have hitherto been treated differently to the rest of Her Majesty's subjects with regard to certain rights and privileges; and whether he would take steps, in future arrangements with the Government of the South African Republic, to secure to British Indian subjects in that region the same treatment as is extended to all other British subjects?
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINI am aware of the facts, and will not lose sight of the subject. As regards the Commandeering Treaty, the hon. Member has been already informed that steps had been taken to prevent the introduction of a colour distinction. As regards the restrictions on trading and domicile our hands are not so free, owing to the result of the arbitration, which leaves the matter in the hands of the Transvaal Courts. But I have undertaken to use any influence I may possess in order to secure fair treatment of all our fellow-subjects, irrespective of colour.