HC Deb 19 May 1915 vol 71 c2314
23. Mr. HOUSTON

asked the Secretary for the Colonies whether he will communicate with the Union of South Africa Government with the object of obtaining permission for a regiment of Zulus, officered by white Colonial or British officers, to be recruited, equipped, and trained at private expense prior to their adoption by the War Office when passed as efficient; and whether he is aware that many thousands of these men have loyal aspirations and desire to take their place along with other coloured British troops in the fighting line in Europe?

Mr. WALTER REA

My right hon. Friend, who is attending a meeting at the Guildhall, has asked me to answer this question. No, Sir. The Secretary of State cannot add anything to his reply to a similar question on 12th May.

Mr. HOUSTON

Will the hon. Member convey to the right hon. Gentleman the importance of mobilising the entire resources of the Empire, seeing that in the natives of South Africa we have some of the finest fighting material in the Empire?

Mr. WALTER REA

I will convey to the right hon. Gentleman what the hon. Member says.