§ MR. SEYMOUR FITZGERALDsaid, he rose to ask the noble Lord the Under Secretary of State for War, Whether it is the case that a regiment has been ordered from Hong Kong to Japan on the requisition of Sir Rutherford Alcock; and, if so, whether he can explain for what purpose these troops are required?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON,in reply, said, a despatch had been received from General Brown at Hong Kong, stating that a requisition had arrived from Sir Rutherford Alcock for the remaining companies of the 2nd battalion of the 20th regiment, then stationed at Hong Kong, to be sent to him at Yokohama. General Brown said that the requisition would be complied with as soon as transports could be obtained.
§ MR. SEYMOUR FITZGERALDsaid, he wished to know whether there is any statement in the despatch as to the object for which the troops are required in Japan?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONsaid, that Sir Rutherford Alcock spoke only in general terms of the state of affairs at present existing in Japan.
§ SIR JOHN PAKINGTONHow many men are going?
LORD NAASsaid, he would beg to give notice that on the Motion for Adjournment next Friday, he would call the attention of the House to this expedition to Japan, and ask the Government what, is the precise object in view?
§ MR. COBDENsaid, he did not understand how many men were to be sent to Yokohama.
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONsaid, he could not speak exactly as to the number of men, but he believed that there were two companies already at Yokohama, and the remainder of the troops would be six companies, or probably about 800 men.
§ MR. SEYMOUR FITZGERALDsaid, he wished to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty, whether it is true that a considerable force of marines was also under orders for Japan?
§ LORD CLARENCE PAGETsaid, he was not then in a position to answer the question. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would repeat it on Thursday.