§ 21. Sir GEORGE TOULMINasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will consider the desirability of inviting ex-adminstrators and other persons with experience of the native races of Africa now in England to confer with him upon the available man-power of Africa and the most desirable means of utilising our resources in Africa during the spring, summer, and autumn of next year?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Bonar Law)I am already in communication with the various Governments concerned, but I shall also consider the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ 22. Commander WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies 1394 whether his attention has been drawn to the inquiry conducted by the "Daily Chronicle" as to the available resources in African man-power; and, seeing that, in the opinion of well-known African ex-administrators and others, that, under proper organisation, it would be possible to obtain and equip ready for service in the spring a total labour force for France of not less than 200,000 men, some part of which might be trained for fighting, will he say what action he proposes to take?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes, Sir; the matter has been, and is, engaging the serious attention of His Majesty's Government, and all steps that are possible are being taken.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of these coloured men are prepared to enlist in fighting battalions at considerbly less pay than they would get in the Labour Battalions?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWAll these considerations are now before the Colonial Office and the War Office, and are being duly weighed.