At the general meeting of the British South Africa Com-
pany held on Wednesday, Lord Grey made a most interest- ing speech on the labour question. After replying to the harsh criticism passed on his previous utterances on the subject, and quoting the striking testimony of Sir Richard Martin to the soundness of the native policy as administered by himself, Sir A. Lawley, and Mr. Milton, Lord Grey addressed himself to the great problem of bow by fair and legitimate means they could induce the natives of Africa' to seek spontaneously continuous employment in their- mime. Under the present regime the native in Rhodesia had his life and property protected; was free to choose his employer or live in idleness; had his contracts protected by a native Com- missioner; and could earn from £20 to 240 per annum, with food and shelter in addition. In return for these advantages he had to pay 10s. per annum, and could, and often did save £50 in a couple of years. The great difficulty, however- was that the majority bad no wish to work, or if they did, retired after a couple of years on their savings, to use their womenkind as slaves, and lead a life of idleness and self- indulgence.
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