HC Deb 22 July 1912 vol 41 c785
47. Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

asked the Prime Minister why the Blue Book containing a description of the cruelty to British coloured subjects and native Indians employed in the collection of rubber in the Putmayo district was not published until after the discussion on the Colonial Office and the Foreign Office Votes; and whether he will now give the House the opportunity of discussing the whole question of indentured British labour?

The PRIME MINISTER

If the hon. Member will refer to the communications with the United States Government, published in the Blue Book, he will see why it was undesirable to publish it sooner. The matter referred to in the second paragraph can be discussed, if desired, on the Second Reading of the Appropriation Bill.