HC Deb 26 June 1882 vol 271 cc420-1
SIR WILFRID LAWSON

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether he was able to confirm or to contradict the statement which appeared in some of that day's newspapers—namely, that troopships were being rapidly got ready at Portsmouth and Chatham; and, if that was so, whether he would tell the House what was their destination? [Cries of "No!"]

MR. CHILDERS

Sir, in ordinary circumstances I should have requested that a Question of this kind should be put to me with Notice; but I think I shall have the approval of the House when I say that that is not a Question which, if put to any Member of the Government, he ought to answer.