The Congo debate in the Belgian Chamber was concluded on
Friday week, after lasting for three weeks. After short speeches by M. Hyman and M. Beernaert, the Government capitulated, and an Order of the Day was agreed to by 128 votes to 1 (the Socialists abstaining) which in effect ratified the policy of the Liberal leader. The Chamber recorded its opinion that annexation was the only solution, and desired that the Central Committee appointed to investigate the question should hasten its labours in order that the matter might come before the House as soon as possible. The result is a signal triumph for M. Hymens. It is virtually a unanimous decision, and represents at once a vindication of the Consti- tutional rights of the Belgian Parliament and a surrender on the part of the Congo absolutists. Another feature of the debate is the weakening of the opposition to every form of colonial enterprise. The speech of M. Vanderverde showed that all parties are united on the value of a progressive and enlightened colonial policy for Belgium. The vote of the Chamber does not commit the country to annexation, but it asserts the right to annex if after inquiry it should seem advisable. Whatever happens, the Congo question has entered on a new phase. If Belgium is unable by herself to effect reform, Europe must come to her aid,
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