§ MR. HEALYasked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether any of the "convicts," whom it is stated were let loose on. Alexandria after Arabi's retreat, were caught by the British and punished for burning and pillage; if so, how many; what number are supposed to have been enlarged; and, if anything is known as to what has become of the remainder?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI have to thank the hon. Member for having put off his Question at my request. I am, however, unable to give him any information as to the numbers or fate of convicts released at Alexandria, as the despatches we have received contain no reference to them. All that we know is the fact stated in one of the telegrams, which I read to the House at the time, that the convicts were released on the 12th of July.
§ MR. O'DONNELLasked whether it was a fact that the telegram from Sir Beauchamp Seymour, stating that the convicts released by Arabi were setting fire to the town, was sent by the Admiral to the Home Government before Sir Beauchamp Seymour or any British officers had penetrated into Alexandria; and whether he would inquire on what authority Sir Beauchamp Seymour brought that charge against Arabi Pasha?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI think the hon. Member had better give Notice of that Question. My impression is that, at the time the telegram was sent, Sir Beauchamp Seymour had full 586 knowledge of what had occurred at Alexandria.