§ MR. P. A. TAYLORasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is the fact that Private William Brooks, of the 1st Dragoon Guards, died in Zululand nearly two years ago (September 1879); whether repeated applications have been made to the War Office on behalf of his mother for her son's effects and for some money he had saved and desired should be remitted to her, with no other result than replies that no information had been received; and, whether he will cause some better arrangements to be made, to the end that more rapid justice may be rendered to the friendless relations of deceased soldiers?
§ MR. CHILDERSThe facts are as my hon. Friend states; but I am glad to say that the statement of Private Brooks' accounts was received at the War Office on the 5th instant, and the money will be paid to his relation forth- 248 with. The officer commanding the regiment has been communicated with, on the subject of the delay, which appears to have been excessive. The instructions on this subject are now perfectly plain.