§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLI beg to ask the Prime Minister for what term does Sir Henry MacCullum, who was appointed to the Governorship of Natal in January, 1901, hold office; and whether, having 1449 regard to the disturbed condition of Natal during his government, the fact that a letter from Lord Milner to him in favour of the suspension of the Cape Constitution was published in the Press, the language used by him in a speech to the Boer leaders during the negotiations which preceded the termination of the South African War, and the severity in the administration of a martial law régime instituted by his own proclamation which has characterised his governorship of Natal, steps will be taken to bring his official connection with Natal to a termination.
THE PRIME MINISTER AND FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Sir H. CAMP-BELL-BANNERMAN, Stirling Burghs)I have already answered the first and the only effective part of this Question. Sir Henry MacCullum's term as Governor of Natal will expire in May of next year. The second part of the Question seems to be merely the excuse for a general denunciation of this distinguised public servant which, if in accordance with the rules of order—as I presume it is, as you, Sir, have allowed it—is at any rate highly improper when made under cover of a Question. The Government have no reason to withdraw their confidence from Sir Henry MacCullum, who in his treatment of recent events has been guided by the advice of his responsible Ministers.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLsaid that if the right hon. Gentleman would give him a day for the purpose he would undertake to substantiate every word he had said.
§ SIB H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANThat may be so, and I have no objection to days being given if there are any to be had, but my observations were addressed to the introducing of these personal opinions under the guise of a Question.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLsaid he took the full responsibility for that.