File 21/1911 Pt 2 'Aden Protectorate:- Recruitment of coolies for employment in British East Africa.' [‎92r] (143/166)

W© propose to recruit them on a contract of sufficient
duration to ensure an adequate return in labour for the
money we shall have to spend in bringing them down the
coast, but there is no question of indenture. Pepatriation,
at the employers expense, will be optional to them at the
end of the stipulated time. Otherwise, if they are disposed
to settle permanently and bring their families, we will
provide them with land for cultivation. We can find em
ployment on the estates for women and children as well as
for grown men.
If the Government of India will give Its support to
the scheme we will undertake in all matters to consult the
wishes of the Aden Authorities, and to refrain from recruit
ing in Aden itself, or any other place where, owing to
labour being required locally, or for other reasons, it is
considered undesirable. Our plan, at present, is to get
into touch with Merchants and others at points on the coast
where labourers can be collected, and get the idea popular
ised among the natives. We propose to send a representa
tive to investigate the whole matter on the spot and if
practicable to effect the necessary organization.
As this matter is one of great importance and urgency
to us we venture to hope that it may receive your early and
favourable consideration. In order to obtain an answer in
the shortest possible time we will gladly defray an3^ expenses
your department majr incur in telegraphing to India or Aden
on the subject.
We have the honour to be
Sir,
Your most obedient
humble servants,