HL Deb 03 May 1858 vol 149 cc2097-8
THE EARL OF SHAFTESBURY

referring to a blue-book, entitled "Further Papers (No. 7)," relative to the mutiny in the East Indies, observed that he found at page 129 the following statement:— Neither will it be, perhaps, desirable to enter into a detailed account of cases of individual suffering, a record of which may be placed more appropriately in an appendix to the narrative, where also may be found the records of survivors and others from which the information now furnished is gathered. There was a foot note with reference to this passage, "Not received." He wished to know whether this note was inserted by the Board of Control or by the Government in India; and also, whether the noble President of the Board of Control had any objection to lay the appendix on the Table?

THE EARL OF ELLENBOROUGH

had made inquiry, and found that the appendix referred to had not been received either by the Board of Control or at the India House, and he thought the probability was that it never was written. The words ''Not received" appeared to have been written in India. Who wrote the account he did not know; the public document which was sent to him had no signature. The noble Earl wished the appendix had been published; but he (the Earl of Ellenborough) thought that even if such an appendix had been received there would be the greatest objection at the present moment, to laying it before the House. The appendix would contain an account of individual sufferings at Cawnpore, and he did not think any public benefit could arise from placing such an account before the world. On the contrary, in his opinion it would be very undesirable to take such a course—while it would be attended with considerable pain to the families of the parties concerned. He believed that the production of further details on the subject would only tend to perpetuate a feeling which was inconsistent with good legislation and good government, and he thought their Lordships would all concur with him that it was most desirable, that all feelings of animosity against the Natives, instead of being increased, should, if possible, be obliterated.

THE EARL OF SHAFTESBURY

desired as much as the noble Earl that all animosity should cease; but he was equally anxious that the truth should be known, and that the characters of those who had been grossly calumniated should be cleared from the imputation which had been cast upon them. If the noble Earl would not lay the document before the House, he gave notice that he would move an Address to the Crown for its production, and he would persist in that course until he obtained it.

THE EARL OF ELLENBOROUGH

You must first ascertain that it is in existence. I don't believe it has ever been written.