HC Deb 14 April 1910 vol 16 cc1411-2
Lord ALEXANDER THYNNE

asked whether any communications have passed, by cablegram or otherwise, between the Government of the Orange River Colony and the Colonial Secretary with regard to Mr. Gunn's resignation of the directorship of education in that Colony; and whether the Secretary of State has any reason to suppose that the circumstances which led to such resignation were in any way due to administrative incompetence on Mr. Gunn's part?

Colonel SEELY

The reply to both parts of the Noble Lord's question is in the negative.

Sir GILBERT PARKER

Are the Government fully impressed with the fact of Mr. Gunn's appointment by the British Government, and that when responsible government was given no provision was made for the Civil servants, and therefore the responsibility rests on this Government for the well-being and future of Mr. Gunn?

Colonel SEELY

That is a very general question arising out of a particular case. I, of course, fully accept the theory that this Government should do whatever it can to see that those officers who have been retrenched through no fault of their own are protected as far as possible by this Government. But as to Mr. Gunn's case, we know nothing officially or unofficially of the facts. As I have said, the answer to the last part of the question is in the negative. I know from Ministers that Mr. Gunn has always in the past shown great administrative competence and ability, but I think it would be undesirable in the interests of all concerned, and especially of Mr. Gunn, to make any statement as to this unfortunate disagreement.

Sir GILBERT PARKER

Do the Government recognise their full responsibility?

Colonel SEELY

We have recognised our responsibility, as the hon. Gentleman knows, by having found a great number of appointments for retrenched officials.

Lord ALEXANDER THYNNE

Will the hon. Gentleman telegraph out to the Governor for a full report of the circumstances which led to Mr. Gunn's resignation?

Colonel SEELY

No. Sir. We shall receive full reports in due time. The whole matter is not concluded. A great deal of information has yet to come, and I do not think it would be wise to telegraph.