HC Deb 15 June 1921 vol 143 cc421-2
76. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has received any information from British official sources in West Africa, which confirms the allegations that large numbers of natives are being conscripted in certain mandated areas for military purposes outside those areas?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have received no such information.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to inquire, or will he allow me to provide him with some information upon the subject?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I shall certainly be very glad if my Noble Friend will give me any information. At the same time, my responsibilities are limited to the very large number of Colonies, Possessions, Dominions, and mandated territories which are under the Colonial Office. If there are mandated territories in possession of foreign Governments, I think it is probable that the information should be sent to my learned Friend the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Any further questions I shall be glad to deal with.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs has referred me to the Secretary for the Colonies?

Mr. SPEAKER

I would remind the Noble Lord that that is not the question on the Paper.