§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether arrangements have been made to provide for the Chinese indentured labourers during their stay in the Transvaal the ministrations of the priests of their religion and the due celebration of the ceremonial rites of that religion; and, if so, what is the nature of these arrangements and on whom will the expense necessary thereto fall; whether arrangements have been made for the proper observance in Chinese temples of the Chinese festivals of the New Year, the Dragon Boat, the Full Moon, or the Winter Solstice which, under the provisions of the Ordinance, are declared to be holidays, and will suitable Chinese temples be erected in the compounds; and whether any, and, if so, what, provision has been made to secure that on the voyage between China and South Africa the Chinese indentured labourers shall have the means of celebrating their religious rites, and at whose expense will their idols be provided.
§ MR. LYTTELTONIf the hon. Member takes an interest in Chinese ritual— [Mr. SWIFT MACNEILL: I no, great.]—I will endeavour to obtain information for him as to it. In my opinion he may,; without anxiety, leave the religious rites
† See (4) Debates, cxxxi., 302.835 of the Chinese to their own administration and their worship to be solemnised after their own fashion.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLIs this religion to be established and endowed? I want to know who is to pay for this ritual?
§ MR. LYTTELTONNo arrangement has been made for the payment.
§ MR. EUGENE WASON (Clackmannan and Kinross)Will other denominations be allowed these privileges?
§ MR. LYTTELTONI have answered the Question several times.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLHas the right hon. Gentleman not given an undertaking to this House.
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The hon. Member knows from experience that his Question is irregular. He must give notice of any further Question.