HC Deb 08 July 1904 vol 137 cc1143-4
MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it was true, as stated in a telegram published that morning, that two coolies had escaped from the compound at Johannesburg, were captured at Pretoria, and bought back in custody; was it true that those men had tried to escape only a few hours after they had landed and had been placed in such favourable conditions as the right hon. Gentleman had described in his speeches; also what was the meaning of the word "captured"? It seemed a curious word in connection with indentured labourers.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. LYTTELTON,) Warwick and Leamington

I have no information on the subject.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

You ought to have information. [Laughter and cries of "Order."]

MR.LYTTELTON

Neither do I consider it convenient that I should be asked to express my views about the terms of a telegram of which I have no knowledge.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Will you telegraph to Lord Milner?

MR. LYTTELTON

No, I do not think it necessary.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

That is just what I wanted you to say.

Adjourned at four minutes before Six o'clock till Monday next.