§ MR. JOHN ELLISI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will state what period was fixed for the naturalisation and enfranchisement as British subjects of aliens in those countries respectively when the civil administration of the Transvaal and Orange River Colony commenced; whether the period has since been altered, and, if so, how it now stands; whether this is a matter requiring the sanction of His Majesty's Government; whether this has been given; and in what Parliamentary Paper the complete rules and regulations on the subject are to be found.
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINNo arrangements for naturalisation were possible at the commencement of civil administration. Ordinances dealing with the subject have now been passed in both colonies, and have been assented to by His Majesty, under which the period of qualifying residence is fixed at five years. These Ordinances have not been included in Papers presented to Parliament.
§ MR. JOHN ELLISMay I ask whether they will be laid on the Table?
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINOf course there is not the slightest objection, but I do not like to burden the House with 421 unnecessary Papers. If the hon. Gentleman desires it they shall be laid.