HC Deb 12 February 1914 vol 58 c313
19. Mr. WEDGWOOD

asked whether His Majesty's Government were informed by the Government of South Africa of their intention to deport the nine labour leaders to this country before the vessel carrying them was despatched; and, if so, what reply His Majesty's Government made to the intimation?

Mr. HARCOURT

On 26th January Ministers informed the Governor-General that steps were being taken to expel certain persons on the 27th. This information reached me in a telegram from the Governor-General received on the afternoon of the 27th. It was, therefore, too late to send a reply, even if the terms of the communication had called for an answer.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

Will the telegram be laid on the Table of the House?

Mr. HARCOURT

I will consider that.