§ 53. Mr. NEIL MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any reports have been received either from the High Commissioner or the resident officer administering the Solomon Islands regarding the outbreak of assaults by natives on white women in the British Solomon Islands and other protectorates in the South Seas; whether the British High Commissioner for the Western Pacific has been consulted; and whether it is intended to take any action? May I take this opportunity of congratulating the right hon. Gentleman on his return to health?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)I am much obliged to the hon. Member. May I also say how much I appreciate the many kind messages which I have received from Members in all parts of the House?
The High Commissioner for the Western Pacific informs me that he has been in consultation with the Resident Commissioner of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate in regard to two cases which occurred in the Protectorate. I am not aware that any incidents have occurred in the other groups within his jurisdiction. I have been in telegraphic communication with the High Commissioner, who is addressing me fully by despatch on the adequacy of the present law.
§ Mr. MACLEANWill the report be made known to Parliament?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI would not like to say that I will lay on the Table of the House a despatch, part of which might be confidential, but I will give the House the general tenor of the despatch.