HC Deb 14 September 1909 vol 10 cc1912-4
Mr. RENWICK

asked whether any, and what, alterations had been made since July last in the conditions under which African natives working in the Transvaal mines were living in compounds; and could any reason be given for the difference in mortality amongst such natives, namely, 35.408 per 1,000 compared with only 15.959 per 1,000 in the case of the Chinese, also living in compounds?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Colonel Seely)

The Secretary of State is not aware of any alterations having been made. In answer to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's question, I would refer him to my remarks in reply to questions by the Noble Lord the Member for East Marylebone on 24th June and 5th November, 1908, and by the hon. Gentleman the Member for Yarmouth on 29th June and 3rd November, 1908.

Mr. RENWICK

Can the hon. Gentleman give any statistics or other information with regard to the present conditions under which South African natives are living in compounds, and any reason why there is such a great discrepancy in the rate of mortality as compared with the Chinese?

Colonel SEELY

As I have stated before, in regard to the Chinese there are so few left, and so many have been sent home, that it may be said to be a case of the survival of the fittest. No one wants to introduce more Chinese, so that it would probably not be worth while to discuss in detail the reason for the death-rate of the Chinese, whether high or low. As regards the native death-rate, I will give any further information that I can obtain. Of course the death-rate is much too high, but it is less than half what it was.

Sir GILBERT PARKER

Is it not the case that this ratio of mortality between Chinese and natives existed when the whole number—50,000—Chinese were in the mines, and that, therefore, the statement just made is not accurate? Secondly, is it not the case that the excessive mortality among the natives is due to the fact that recruiting from British Central Africa and other parts of tropical Africa is continued, in spite of the dissent of this House from the policy?

Mr. KILBRIDE

Can the hon. Gentleman tell the House what was the death-rate among white women and children when they were in compounds in South Africa?

Colonel SEELY

The question of the hon. Member covers a wide field. Perhaps he will put down a question about Central African natives, upon which subject there are already questions on the Paper. With regard to the death-rate of the Chinese, it is difficult to draw any exact parallel, because when the 50,000 were on the Rand the deaths from violence were so numerous.

Lord R. CECIL

Has there been any decline in the death-rate of natives during the last few months?

Colonel SEELY

I am not sure about the last few months; but during the last few years the decline has been steady and continuous. I cannot speak from recollection as to the last few months. I shall be glad if the hon. Member will put down a question; it is very important.

Mr. RENWICK

Will the hon. Gentleman make inquiries as to the conditions under which natives are at present living, and the reason of the excessive mortality?

Colonel SEELY

Yes. We are constantly making inquiries on this subject. Hardly a mail goes but inquiries are sent. If the hon. Member tells me what specific point he wants inquired about I will endeavour to get the information.