Execution of Natives Prevented

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8153, 31 March 1906, Page 5

Execution of Natives Prevented

Uv tlio British (jJovcriimcnt. >i ■ f Colonial Indignation. A Ministry Kesicns(By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) (For Press Association). CAPETOWN. March :!0. Great indignation, which is hourly increasing, is felt, throughout Natal ove l ' Lord Elgin, Secretary of Stale lor the Colonies, telegraphing the Governor, Colonel Sir 11. E McCalhim, to postpone the execution of twelve natives fixed for to-day. Colonel McCallum conveyed instructions to the Premier, who'felt unahle tu accede; thereupon the Governor excused his authority under letters patent and postponed the execution pending the consideration of the sentences by the Home Government. The Promior of Natal has signed an oflicial statement as follows :—ln view of the importanco of the maintenance of the Government's authority in the present crucial juncture, and the constitutional question involved by Lord Elgin's interference with the decision of the Executive Council of a Colony enjoying responsible self-government, the Ministers feel compelled instantly to resign, but at tho Governor's request they remain in office pending further communication with Lord Elgin. He adds: The Colony unitedly supports the Premier's action. The court martial which tried the Natal natives was composed of five militia officers. The natives were legally represented, and the hearing lasted a week. The evidence of twelve Europeans and twenty one natives was taken, and twelve prisoners were found guilty of murder and sentenced to be shot. Six received terms of imprisonment in addition to various numbers of lashes. Three were discharged. The Governor-in-Couneil confirmed tho sentences, and the neighbouring tribes were ordered to witness the executions. LONDON, March 30. Lord Elgin, Secretary for the Colonies, in the Lords. disclaimed any want of sympathy with Natal or any desire to interfere in a self-governing colony, but said that tho execution ot twelve men by court-martial was a serious matter. He had to consider it in view of a possible request for military assistance and thought it his duty to ask for information. (Received March 31. at 7.20 a.m). CAPETOWN, March 30. Meetings of protest have been summoned at Fietermaritzburg and Durban. Telegrams show that practically the whole white population of South Africa supports the Premier. Lord Elgin's action is considered likely to rouse a false impression in the mind's of the natives and lesssen their respect for colonial government.