§ MR. VILLIERS STUART, in putting a Question as to the relief of Tokar, hoped that the Government would give such a reply—["Order!"]
§ MR. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is not entitled to enter into debate.
§ MR. VILLIERS STUARTthen asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether there is any body of insurgents between Tokar and the Coast capable of barring the way to a disciplined European Force; whether the distance is less than fifteen miles; whether, therefore, it is included in the Red Sea littoral which Her Majesty's Government have undertaken to preserve to Egypt; and, whether, in the event of there being a sufficient force of soldiers, marines, and blue jackets available at Aden, or within easy reach of Suez, Her Majesty's Government will endeavour to relieve the gallant but starving garrison of Tokar?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE, in reply, said, the force was about 3,000; the distance was rather over 15 miles. In regard to the third and fourth heads of the Question, he could not anticipate the statement of the Premier.