HC Deb 13 July 1909 vol 7 cc1837-8
Mr. CATHCART WASON

I desire to ask the right hon. Baronet whether, with reference to the conditions of labour on the cocoa plantations at St. Thomé, Portuguese West Africa, any modifications or alterations have taken place in the manner in which such labour is recruited in Angola; and if he will state their nature?

Sir E. GREY

I understand that new regulations respecting recruitment in Angola are being drawn up, and will shortly be published. From statements previously made in the Cortes it appears that the districts within which recruitment will be permitted will be limited very strictly. The new arrangements will be placed under the supervision and direct control of specially appointed officials, who will be responsible to the Governor-General of the Province. Full particulars of the number of labourers recruited, their place of origin, and a certificate that their contracts have been properly entered into will be periodically published in the official paper. In all cases of future engagements repatriation will be ensured whenever the native desires it, and in Angola measures will be introduced to protect repatriated natives and to facilitate, as far as possible, their return to their homes. I must add, further, that the Portuguese Government have decided that until the new regulations become effective no further recruitment will be permitted in Angola, which is evidence of their intention to prevent abuses.

Mr. CATHCART WASON

With reference to repatriation, will the regulations ensure that those natives who have been sent to Angola and to St. Thorne will be allowed to return to their own country, and I would like to know whether they will be compelled to return?

Sir E. GREY

I do not think people should be compelled to return against their will if they wish to stay. What is understood is that if they desire to come back there is an obligation to provide them facilities for doing so. The regulations which have been drawn up are shortly to be published, and then we shall have fuller information about them.

Mr. H. BELLOC

During the diplomatic conversations on this subject, has the Portugese representative ever alluded to the conditions of labour in British South Africa?

Sir E. GREY

I am not aware that any such references have been made.

Mr. BELLOC

Then they have missed an opportunity.