Mr. KINGasked whether a warrant, No. 1881/74, has been issued in Southern Nigeria for the capture of a fugitive domestic, named Joe; whether his offence was stated in the warrant to be that of running away from his master; whether the larceny with which he is also charged in the warrant was really merely the taking away the clothing which he wore; and whether orders can be sent to the Governor of Southern Nigeria that in this and similar cases no fugitive domestic, whether described as servant or slave, shall be forcibly handed over to his employer until a report is received from the Governor upon the House Rule Ordinance under which such fugitive domestics are so dealt with?
Mr. HARCOURTI am addressing an inquiry to the Governor with reference to this case, as to which no information has reached me. I may observe, however, that as the status of slavery is not recognised in Southern Nigeria the domestic in question cannot be described as a slave.
Mr. KINGWould the right hon. Gentleman give attention to the matter if I furnished him with a copy of the warrant in this case, which I hold in my hand?
Mr. HARCOURTIt would be of great assistance if the hon. Member would supply me with any information which I do not possess.