§ 66. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Prime Minister whether he is 1621 aware that an instrument is in course of preparation which will place in the hands of the British South Africa Company further powers for evicting natives from their ancestral homes and lands in Southern Rhodesia; that missionaries of long experience are on their way to appeal to him on behalf of the natives; that there is indignation at the injustices to which the natives of Rhodesia have been subjected; and whether he will consider giving instructions that no Order in Council or other instrument shall be issued which shall prejudice the position of the natives until he has been able to inquire into the facts or until the Colonial Secretary returns from his mission in Egypt?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first three parts of the question is in the negative. No Order in Council prejudicing the natives of Southern Rhodesia is in contemplation.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Governor-General of South Africa has stated that there is no part of the Empire where the natives have received better treatment, and does he know that there is a. growing indignation about the unfounded charges which are repeatedly made against the white races by hon. Members who have not been to the country?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI have not noticed the expression of opinion by the Governor-General, but I was myself at the Colonial Office and I agree with every word he has said.