§ LORD COLIN CAMPBELLI gave Notice this morning of a Question which I proposed to ask on Friday, founded on a statement which appeared in The Times of this morning, to the effect that some British soldiers had been guilty of looting the Khedive's Palace at Ramleh; and I understand that it will be convenient to the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary of State for War that I give him now an opportunity of saying whether that statement is correct or not.
§ MR. CHILDERSMr. Speaker, I am much obliged to my noble Friend for putting the Question to me now, and I will read a telegram on the subject which we have received this afternoon. It is in these words—
It was reported to the Khedive yesterday that His Highness's Palace at Ramleh had been ransacked by our soldiers. General Alison at once proceeded to discover the truth. Major Harmer, who accompanied him, tells me this morning that he is convinced that there is no foundation for the statement. The Palace had been entered by a window, and turned upside down, before our men arrived. It must have been the work of some Arabs. Sentries were posted before and behind the Palace immediately 1904 after the arrival of our men, and yesterday officers searched the men, but without results.It is quite evident, therefore, that the statement is entirely unfounded.
§ House adjourned at five minutes before Six o'clock.