HC Deb 20 February 1908 vol 184 cc1015-6
MR. CLAUDE HAY (Shoreditch, Hoxton)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if amending legislation connected with the Pacific Islanders, Protection Act will be introduced this session.

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

No, Sir.

MR. CLAUDE HAY

Then do I understand that the Government maintains a condition of slavery under the British flag?

MR. CHURCHILL

I am not aware there is any such condition of slavery established in these Islands. If the hon. Member has any information showing that I shall be glad to receive it.

SIR GILBERT PARKER (Gravesend)

Is it not the case that last session the Government announced that such an Act would be necessary under the Convention?

MR. CHURCHILL

The object of the Convention was to prevent improper conditions of labour prevailing under the British flag, and that will be fully carried out.