§ 68. Sir. W. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has yet received any information confirming the report that the notorious firm of Julio Cæsar Arana had been re-established on the Putumayo; and whether any British subjects are employed by the firm?
Mr. HARMSWORTHIn June last, the acting British Consul at Iquitos reported that Mr. Arana had been in Lima for the previous six months, and that, in view of the absence of demand for rubber, the operations of his firm had not been resumed. One British subject was at that time employed in the district.
Sir J. D. REESCan the hon. Gentleman say whether there is not reason to believe that misdeeds were imputed to this firm with a sinister object by Casement and his friends? In any case, can the hon. Gentleman say what is the jurisdiction or interest of the British Government?