§ 1. Mr. HOAREasked the Secretary of State for Foriegn Affairs whether he has now considered the facts connected with the trial and sentence of the Portuguese Corporal Taveira for the murder of the Rev. Arthur Douglas, at Kango, Portuguese East Africa; and whether he has been successful in obtaining an indemnity 2189 in addition to the punishment of lone year's imprisonment?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir Edward Grey)I have considered all the existing facts connected with this case. No indemnity has so far been demanded from the Portuguese Government, and I can add nothing to the answers which have already been given on the subject.
§ Mr. STANIERHas the right hon. Gentleman consulted the family of the late Mr. Douglas regarding indemnity?
§ Sir E. GREYMy impression is that we have consulted them, but they do not want anything in the form of money compensation; but I would like to be quite certain about it.
§ Mr. HOAREDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that the penalty of one year's imprisonment is sufficient for the offence?
§ Sir E. GREYNo, Sir; I would not commit myself to saying that I am satisfied with the actual penalty, but the case is causing a good deal of difficulty, and after reviewing the whole case, it is very doubtful whether we shall press for anything more. I would not like to say definitely whether we should not press for an indemnity under the circumstances.