THE CONGO.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXI, Issue 9037, 2 March 1908, Page 5

THE CONGO.

SIR EDWARD GREY'S SPEECH

BELGIUM IMPRESSED

BRUSSELS, February 28,

Belgium is profoundly impressed by the minatory tone of the Congo speech of .Sir Edward Grey in the House of Commons.

King Leopold } rofesfled willingness to dispose of his private rights in the King's Domain in the Congo for five millions sterling provokes sharp criticism.

Received March 1, 4.34 p.m. BRUSSELS, February 29

In the Belgian Chamber of Deputies, M. Schollaert, replying to Sir E. Grey's menaces, declared that Belgium was her own mistress, and was not responsible to England or any other country, and refuses to accept any advice on the control of matters which are purely Belgian. .The Chamber, by 76 to 56, supported M. Schollaert.

During a debate in the House of Commons on a motion moved by Mr Leif Jonea relating to the Congo, Sir Eclwai'd stated that when it was clearer than Belgium intended to assume control of the Congo on satisfactory conditions, Britain would discuss with her, in a friendly way, all questions arising under her treaty rights. If Belgium did not assume responsibility for the Congo State, the British Government would do its utmost to find means of securing practical results in the way of reform of conditions.