HC Deb 22 November 1911 vol 31 cc1172-3
Mr. AGG-GARDNER

asked when His Majesty's Government will be prepared to give formal recognition of the annexation of the Congo by Belgium?

Mr. ACLAND

As has been previously stated in this House, His Majesty's Government will not recognise the annexation until they are able to lay before the House evidence to show that the actual state of things in the Congo with regard to the condition of the natives and with regard to trade is such as to have brought the conditions there within, at any rate, reasonable measure of fulfilling treaty obligations. We shall, therefore, in any case, wait until the whole of the three zones into which the country was divided have been opened to trade.

Sir G. PARKER

When do the Government expect to publish the Report of Consuls, and is it the intention of the Foreign Secretary to deal with the question on Monday next?

Mr. ACLAND

I cannot reply to the second question. I have not consulted my right hon. Friend as to the subjects he will deal with in his speech. A Blue Book has been laid, and ought to be in the hands of Members in a day or two.

Mr. FALLE

Will the House have an opportunity of giving an opinion on the Convention before it is accepted?

Mr. ACLAND

I cannot answer that question. It clearly does not arise.