HC Deb 08 February 1897 vol 45 cc1556-7
MR. HOGAN

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies, can he explain why a Blue-Book, embodying valuable information as to the causes of the serious decline in the native population of Fiji during recent years, has not been published by the Government of that Crown Colony; is there any document or dispatch in the Colonial Office that would throw light upon this proceeding; and will he call for an explanation from the Governor?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

The Report in question has been received and is at present under the consideration of Her Majesty's Government. It would not be desirable, or in accordance with the usual practice in such cases, to publish the Report in the Colony in its present stage.