HC Deb 28 July 1904 vol 138 c1463
MR. WHITLEY (Halifax)

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many depots are being built in China for the reception of indentured labourers for Transvaal mines under the agreement with the Chinese Government; and from what source are the costs being provided.

MR. LYTTELTON

Perhaps I may be allowed to answer this. Tientsin and Ching-wang-toa have been notified as ports of embarkation under the convention, and depots will be provided at these ports. With regard to the second part of the Question I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to a similar Question on 31st May.†

MR. WHITLEY

But are not these depots under the control of the Foreign Office who are building depots at these places with the unpronounceable names?

MR. LYTTELTON

Neither the Foreign Office nor the Colonial Office.

MR. WHITLEY

Are they being built at all?

MR. LYTTELTON

I believe they are being built by those who represent the Chinese Government.