§ 1. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether, by recognising formally the sovereign rights of Belgium over the Congo, this country will retain or acquire any guarantees for the open door in trade, for the neutrality of the regions recognised, and for the good government and humane treatment of the native populations?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Acland)The recognition of the sovereign rights of Belgium over the Congo will snake no difference in any of the matters referred to by the hon. Member. Previous treaty rights will remain.
§ Sir J. D. REESHas the Foreign Office any reason to suppose that the Belgian Government is less anxious for the good government and humane treatment of the native populations than we are?
§ Mr. ACLANDI hope not.