HC Deb 12 April 1866 vol 182 cc1119-20
COLONEL SYKES

said, he wished to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether Reports or Despatches have been received from Consul Meadows at Newchang respecting the approach of rebels in December last; also from Consul Medhurst at Hankow mentioning the proximity of a large rebel force, and detailing the measures adopted for the protection of British property; and whether the Consuls have suggested to the British Government any and what measures for the future safety of the foreign settlements in China?

MR. LAYARD,

in reply, said, it appeared that Consul Meadows had been much alarmed at the beginning of last winter at what he deemed to be the prospect of an attack on Newchang by a large force of rebels. He, in consequence, requested the loan of some guns from the Admiral on the station, by whom they were lent. The Government had, however, received no information that an attack on Newchang had since taken place. With respect to the attack on Hankow, he had to state that he had no reason to believe that that city had been threatened by a large rebel force. It seemed that a considerable number of villagers had taken refuge in the city, declaring that the country around was invaded by the rebels. The Consul went out to see what was the matter, but instead of seeing 80,000 the number stated, he found eight men on horseback, armed with spears and carrying bags across their saddles, and they ran away directly a shot was fired at them, leaving behind them the bags, which were found to contain eight women. There were, he believed, a few rebels still prowling about, but he was sorry to have to inform his hon. and gallant Friend that the last information from China represented his particular friends the Tae-pings as having been almost exterminated. He had simply to add, in answer to the last Question, that he was not aware that any special suggestions had been made by our Consuls with regard to the necessity of taking further steps for the defence of our settlements in China. Any suggestions of that kind would come in the ordinary course through Her Majesty's Minister at Pekin.