CHAMBERLAIN’S RECEPTION IN NATAL WAS VERY SUCCESSFUL MILNER (Alfred, 1854-1925, K.G., High Commissioner for South Africa and Colonial Secretary, 1st Viscount)

Second Page of a Typed letter signed to an unnamed correspondent, saying that he does “not think its ‘hanging up’ for a month or two, till it can be considered on its merits and apart from the heat and false issues which are inevitably introduced when it is made the fighting ground of party, will do any harm. Let me congratulate you on the very successful reception accorded to Mr Chamberlain in Natal, which has made the most favourable impression upon him, and will, I think, exercise a good effect on our political condition generally...”, 1 side A4, no place, no date, circa

From 26th December 1902 to 25th February 1903, Neville Chamberlain was on a South African tour, seeking to promote Anglo-Afrikaner conciliation and integration into the British Empire. In Natal, Chamberlain was given a rapturous welcome. In the former Transvaal, he met Boer leaders who were attempting unsuccessfully to alter the peace terms. The reception given to Chamberlain in the former Orange Free State, (at the time renamed the Orange River Colony) was surprisingly friendly. During his visit, Chamberlain became convinced that the Boer territories required a period of government by the British crown before being granted self-governance within the empire.

Item Date:  1903

Stock No:  42449      £275

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