HC Deb 06 April 1908 vol 187 cc927-8
MR. MACKARNESS (Berkshire, Newbury)

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether Dinizulu is a British subject who was, in 1898, established as a Government induna in Zululand, under a guarantee from the Imperial Government that the position then assigned to him should not be withdrawn without the approval of the Secretary of State; whether this chief was, early in December last, arrested without any definite charge being made against him, and has since that date been imprisoned and examined in secret without being charged with any specific offence; and whether the Secretary of State has been made aware of any conduct on Dinizulu's part disentitling him to the fulfilment of the guarantee given by the Imperial Government, and, if not, what steps he proposes to take.

THE UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. CHURCHILL,) Manchester, N.W.

The reply to the first paragraph of the Question is in the affirmative; as to the second, Dinizulu has been charged with treason and other offences, and the Natal Government is proceeding against him in a manner which they are advised is in accordance with the law of the Colony. On the remainder of the hon. and learned Member's Question I can only say that the Secretary of State's opinion has already been expressed, and I am not in a position to add anything to any answers to similar Questions.

SIR GILBERT PARKER (Gravesend)

; Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the opinion of the Secretary for the Colonies?

MR. CHURCHILL

It will be found in the Papers to be laid.