§
Sir Charles Napier moved for,
Copies of the correspondence between the British and Turkish Governments, relative to the state of Lebanon since the re-establishment of the Turkish authority in Syria; also correspondence with the consul-general, Colonel Rose; correspondence relative to the position
115
of the Emir Bechirel Cassem, from the time of his assuming the government; the same correspondence relative to the losses of the inhabitants of the Lebanon during the military operations in that country.
§ Sir R. Peelhad no objection to the production and publication of all papers that were necessary to show the exact state of the case without compromising individuals. At the same time, the correspondence required by the hon. and gallant Officer extended over a great period. [Sir C. Napier: Not above one year.] He believed it would be found to be nearer two years. The correspondence, however, was very voluminous, and overwhelmed as the Foreign-office was with business at this period of the Session, he could not promise the production of the papers very soon.
§ Sir C. Napierwould be contented with such papers as could be produced without danger to the public service or the safety of individuals. His object was not to embarrass the Government, but to show to the inhabitants of the Lebanon that we had not neglected the promises that had been made to them. We did not really Stand so well in that country as we ought.
§ Sir R. Peelsaid, the whole of the papers would make an immense volume. He could not be responsible for the conduct of the Turkish government.
§ Sir C. Napierwas satisfied the Government had done all in their power to do justice to the people of the Lebanon; but it would be advantageous to show that fact; and perhaps the right hon. Baronet would select a sufficient portion of the correspondence for that purpose.
§ Sir R. Peelsaid, if the gallant Officer would leave it to him, he would produce enough of the correspondence to show the extent of our engagements, and which would enable the gallant Officer to take the course he might deem best, and which would, at the same time, show that the Government had been unceasing in their endeavours for a settlement.
§ Motion agreed to.