HC Deb 27 January 1809 vol 12 cc178-9
Sir John Anstruther

rose to express his extreme regret that the name of a gallant relation of his who had fallen a sacrifice in the cause of his country, on the late march of the British army to Corunna, had been honoured with no place in the Votes of Thanks which had passed that house to the officers who had been employed on that service. That was a circumstance which bore heavily on the feelings of that gallant officer's friends and family. That he did not in his death share the honours so justly paid to sir John Moore, for the victory at Corunna, was not to be imputed to him, as it was upon his march thither, that he fell a victim to excessive fatigue only 48 hours before the battle, in which, but for this premature fate, he would have borne a distinguished part. He took the opportunity of mentioning this subject to the noble lord, with a view to ask, if such a gratification could be conceded to the wishes of general Anstruther's family.

Lord Castleragh

answered, that he had every wish to acknowledge the eminent services of the gallant general, and that he felt every disposition to do honour to his memory; but on the present occasion, he feared it was not compatible with the usage of parliament, to name any officers but those who were actually present.

Sir A. Wellesley

bore strong testimony to the distinguished gallantry of gen. Anstriuther. He was confident, had it been consistent with parliamentary usage, his name would have been included in the vote of the house.

The Secretary at War

concurred in the same sentiments, and added, that the gallant general's name had twice before been included in the thanks of the house.