§ MR. DILLONI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether a proclamation has been issued in South Africa to the effect that any of the inhabitants of the Orange Free State found in arms after a certain fixed date will be treated as rebels.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN,) Birmingham, W.Lord Roberts at the end of May consulted Sir A. Milner as to the issue of a proclamation warning the inhabitants that after being made aware 1323 of the annexation, they would be liable to be treated as rebels. I have no further information at present. I have telegraphed to inquire what action has been taken.
§ MR. DILLONCan the right hon. Gentleman state whether or not this action of Lord Roberts was taken with the approval of the home Government?
§ MR. CHAMBERLAINdid not reply immediately.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLAnswer, answer!
§ MR. DILLONIf the right hon. Gentleman cannot answer the question, I shall put it on the Paper.
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINThe hon. Member need not be so hasty. I merely desired to understand what the question (which is put without notice) is about. I am not aware that any action has been taken, and under the circumstances I cannot say whether the action has received the approval of the Home Government or not.