HC Deb 27 July 1903 vol 126 cc324-5
MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies if in the inquiry on which the Governor of Fiji is engaged due protection will be afforded to any natives giving evidence; and if the result of the inquiry will be laid upon the Table of the House.

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

The Governor of Fiji has been steadily pursuing his inquiries since he assumed the government more than ten months ago, and I am not aware of anything that has happened to justify the imputation that either natives or Europeans who may give him information require protection. Papers will be laid in due course when matters have further advanced.

MR. CATHCART WASON

Is it not the case that some have been imprisoned?

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

I think the hon. Gentleman's information is in correct.

MR. CATHCART WASON

Will the right hon. Gentleman further inquire?

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

I am inquiring all the time.