HC Deb 08 March 1898 vol 54 c965
MR. BAYLEY

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the case of a Native trader from Abokata, who, last October, was seized by a policeman at Lagos, and impressed into the Government service as a carrier, and who has subsequently committed suicide; and whether the employment of compulsory labour in Lagos has been sanctioned by Her Majesty's Government; and, if not, whether efficient steps will be taken to prevent its being resorted to?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES

I have no information as to the case mentioned. The employment of compulsory labour in Lagos has not been sanctioned by Her Majesty's Government. The Governor will be asked for a report upon the case mentioned, and whether resort has been had by the Lagos Government to compulsory labour in any form.