MR. BRYN ROBERTS (Carnarvonshire, Eifion)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to a public statement made by Sir Gordon Sprigg on the 6th instant with reference to Lord Milner's views upon the suspension of the Cape Constitution, that Lord Milner has no jurisdiction in the Cape, that he is High Commissioner, that his duties are entirely outside the Cape, and that the Governor of the Colony represents the Crown; and will he state whether the High Commissioner has any, and, if so, what, duties in relation to Cape Colony; and, if not, whether he has made any communication to Lord Milner on the subject.
THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK—(for Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN) (Surrey, Guildford)I have seen the statement referred to, which appears to be correct, but I am not aware that Lord Milner has claimed any jurisdiction within the Cape Colony, and I have not thought it necessary to take any action in the matter.
MR. BRYN ROBERTSasked whether Lord Milner did not communicate his views on the suspension of the Cape Constitution.
§ MR. BRODRICKNo, Sir.
§ MR. FLYNN (Cork Co., N.)Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Lord Milner advised a deputation of the South African League to bring pressure to bear on the Imperial Government?