§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether during the War the imposition of conscription in Africa led to the migration of natives into British territories; whether such immigrants were interned, driven back over the border, or allowed to settle; what was the approximate number of such natives: and what is the present policy of the Government in similar cases?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYIt is the case that considerable numbers of natives—exact figures cannot be given—entered British West Africa from foreign territory with a view to avoiding conscription. Under special powers conferred by war legislation these natives were, so far as possible, induced or compelled to return to their own countries. These special powers have now lapsed—and it is not intended to renew them.
§ Mr. WADDINGTONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the natives of West Africa object to the new silver coinage, and that the coins lose their colour and are also unsuitable for native purposes; and will he withdraw those issued and revert to the former standard of coinage, having regard to the price of silver?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYI have had no information suggesting that the new silver coins, which are of the same fineness as the new United Kingdom silver coins, are unpopular or unsuitable for native purposes; it is not proposed to withdraw them. The issue of these silver coins has, however, been suspended for some time; new alloy coins being issued instead.