Question

I cannot look forward without dread to handing over the security and existence of this great Empire to the hands of those who have made common cause with its enemies, who have charged their own countrymen with methods of barbarism, and who apparently have been untouched by that pervading sentiment which I found everywhere where the British flag floats, and which has done so much in recent years to draw us together. I should not require to go to South Africa in order to be convinced that this feeling has obtained deep hold on the minds and hearts of our children beyond the seas.

–“I Believe in a British Empire,”
Joseph Chamberlain

Which statement best summarizes the claim of the passage?

Great Britain must not elect officials who would abandon any part of the empire.
Great Britain should allow South Africa home rule.
Great Britain should dread threats to its security from the barbarism in the colonies.
Great Britain must begin decolonization immediately.

Answer 1

Great Britain must not elect officials who would abandon any part of the empire.

Explanation: Chamberlain fears "handing over the security and existence" of the empire to people who sided with its enemies and lack the unifying imperial sentiment; he argues against entrusting the empire to such leaders.