HC Deb 03 December 1909 vol 13 c607W
Mr. A. H. SCOTT

asked the Under-Secretary for the Colonies what is the number of the Indians at present in the Transvaal gaols for contravention of the Registration and Immigration Laws of the Colony; whether the resident Indian population have not all established their titles, as pre-war residents, to be there; and whether the Secretary of State will represent to the Transvaal Government the desirability of repealing this law, and also the immigration law which excludes the population of India on the score of their race and colour?

Colonel SEELY

I do not know the number of Indians now in prison, but enquiry shall be made. I would point out with reference to the second question that there is no reason to suppose that any of the Indians are illegally imprisoned. With regard to the last question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the full statement, given by the Secretary of State in another place on the 16th ultimo, of the nature of the communications which have passed between himself and the Transvaal Government, with a view to the amendment of the laws alluded to in the interests of the Indian population.