§ MR. W. E. FORSTERI wish to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer a Question of which I have not been able until within the last minute or so to give him private Notice. I received this morning from Constantinople a telegram to this effect—sent by a gentleman in whom I have every reason to repose much confidence, and I think the Government would be disposed to concur with me were I to mention his name. I will now read the telegram exactly as it stands—
Desirable to ask Government whether any steps taken for assisting destitute British sub- 394 jects in Constantinople or elsewhere, who in considerable numbers are arriving.The telegram is not quite clear, but we see what it means—that this gentleman is of opinion that many distressed British subjects are arriving at Constantinople who are in need of assistance. Considering the urgency of the matter, the right hon. Gentleman will excuse my asking whether the Government have taken any steps to assist destitute British subjects; and, if it be inconvenient to answer the Question now, I will repeat it to-morrow.
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERAs far as I am aware the Government has no information at present on the subject; but if the right hon. Gentleman will give Notice of his Question, I will make inquiries and answer it to-morrow.