We regret that Mr. Winston Churchill in the Commons on
Monday, in replying to a question by Mr. Levert= Harris in regard to cocoa and slave labour, gave an answer which, we fear, will inspire the planters of San Thom6 and Principe with the notion that the British Government do not moan to trouble themselves about slave-grown cocoa, and will do nothing to help the agitation against the abominable trade in human beings which is practised on the islands and on the mainland in flat contradiction of the Treaty engagements of Portugal. Mr. Churchill's words were : "No steps for the prohibition of the importation of this cocoa are at present in contemplation." If instead of this cold non possumus he had used words which showed some sympathy with the anti-slavery movement, help instead of discouragement might have been given to those who are endeavouring by negotiation to oblige Portugal and the planters to free themselves from the disgrace that now attaches to them. It is most important to make the planters realise that if things go on as they are they will lose their best customers in this country, and that the action of private firms will be supported by the . Government. But it will not be possible to exert this influence over them if the Government treat the matter as Mr. Winston Churchill treated it.
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