HC Deb 20 February 1900 vol 79 cc558-9
MR. PATRICK O'BRIEN () Kilkenny

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the term "native districts" will include all districts where the natives form a majority of the population, in districts of South Africa; if British forces, as well as Boers, are to be expected to refrain from entering or utilising native districts; and if British troops, as well as Boers, will be instructed to retire from all such native districts.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN,) Birmingham, W.

The answer to the first question is in the negative; and to the second, that I cannot lay down rules in a matter which is subject to military considerations, but that the principle guiding the question is to keep the natives entirely out of the struggle if possible, but not to prevent them from defending themselves and their property if they are attacked.

MR. LOUGH () Islington, W.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what constitutes a native district?

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

That depends on who uses the term.

MR. PATRICK O'BRIEN

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Boers have invaded Zulu-land; whether he is aware that a large Hying column of mounted troops was despatched many weeks ago from Natal to Zululand previous to any incursion by Boer troops; and whether Her Majesty's Government will inform President Kruger that these British troops will be with- drawn if the Boer troops also are withdrawn.

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

The answer to the first question is in the affirmative. As to the second, yes. A small flying column appears to have been sent about five weeks ago, but the Boer forces had previously violated the border and attacked and burnt the magistracy at Ingwavuma at the end of October. The answer to the third is no, Sir. I do not know whether the hon. Member is aware that Zululand is under British control.

MR. P. O'BRIEN

I am also aware that other parts are under British control. Is it not a fact that the contention of the Government is that the Transvaal also is under British control?

[No answer was given.]