HC Deb 20 January 1902 vol 101 cc296-7
MR. GIBSON BOWLES

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether the statement made by Mr. Schalk W. Burger, styling himself acting State President of the South African Republic, in his letter to General Kitchener of 5th September, 1901, embodied in the words "This Government is now discussing the desirability of sending in a joint proposal for peace to Your Excellency's Government," has been followed by any further communication to the effect suggested by those words, made either to Lord Kitchener or to His Majesty's Government through any other channel.

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir, The proposal was clearly, by Mr. Schalk Burger's own words, immediately preceding those which the hon. Member has quoted, to be based on the independence of the Republic, which was excluded by Lord Kitchener's reply in accordance with the declared policy of His Majesty's Government.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

Has any further communication been received?

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

Not that I am aware of