HC Deb 08 February 1911 vol 21 cc273-4
Mr. KING

asked when a Report may be expected from Consul-General Casement upon the condition of affairs in the rubber plantations of the Putumayo Valley; whether there are employed in that part of the Amazon basin any British subjects, natives of Barbadoes; and, if so, whether these British subjects have been instrumental in carrying out acts of barbarity against the natives?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

A report has just been received from Mr. Casement and is under consideration.

Mr. KING

Will that report be published in due course for the full consideration of members?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I think in a day or so we shall be able to give full information to the House.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

Is there to be any change made in the condition of affairs in the Putumayo valley?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I cannot answer that question. I think it would be better to defer it until we have the report.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

No action has been taken at present.

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I did not say that no action has been taken.

Mr. KING

Has any representation been received from the company or from the commissioners sent out by the company.

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

The report upon which we shall rely is the report of our own agent.