HC Deb 12 August 1909 vol 9 cc637-8
Mr. LEVERTON HARRIS

asked whether British settlers in the New Hebrides have been expressly forbidden to engage native married women; and whether, consequently, large numbers of male native labourers are now lodged in compounds in those islands without their wives?

Colonel SEELY

In reply to the first part of the hon. Gentleman's question, I may refer him to the answer which I gave on Tuesday last to the hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for St. Andrews Burghs. In reply to the second part, it is expressly provided that the wives of native labourers may accompany their husbands; native labourers in the New Hebrides live on their employers' estates, but not in compounds. The total number of men recruited for employment by British subjects last year was 230.

Mr. LEVERTON HARRIS

asked whether French settlers in the New Hebrides are permitted to engage native married women, with the consent of their husbands and under the terms of contract regulated by the New Hebrides Convention?

Colonel SEELY

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave on Tuesday to the hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for St. Andrews Burghs.