HC Deb 16 June 1876 vol 229 cc1975-6
Mr. JOHN BRIGHT

I wish to put a Question to the right hon. Gentleman at the head of the Government with respect to the news which has just arrived as to the occurrence of a fresh tragedy at Constantinople. The statement is that the tragedy which has there been enacted is one arising from private revenge. If that be so, it has of course no great public or European importance. It is possible the Government may have information confirming that statement, and, if so, I am sure the House would be glad, to hear it. If they have any information of a contrary and more unpleasant character, still I think the House and the country would be equally glad to hear that information. I have waited, thinking it probable that the Question would be asked by some of my Friends sitting near me, but, the Question not being asked, I take on myself the freedom of asking the right hon. Gentleman, If he wishes to say anything in regard to it which may be interesting to the House and the country?

Mr. DISRAELI

Sir, from information which we have in our possession there appears to be no doubt of the occurrence of the dreadful event to which the right hon. Gentleman refers. Two of the Turkish Ministers were assassinated; a third was wounded, and one of their attendants was shot dead. It is said that the deed was prompted by private revenge against the Seraskier, Hussein Avni Pasha, who was the first victim. It is, however, impossible for me to pretend at present to offer an opinion to the House on such a subject as the real motives for the deed. If of course any information of an authentic character reaches me, I shall not fail to take an early opportunity of communicating it to the House.