HC Deb 05 July 1883 vol 281 cc467-8
MR. A. M'AETHUR

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether Her Majesty's Government have received any confirmation of the reported bombardment of Tamatave and other places by a French Naval force; if he can state to the House whether any loss of life or property has been sustained by British subjects; and, what steps have been taken for the protection of British interests?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

Sir, Her Majesty's Government have received confirmation of the bombardment of Tamatave and of Majunga by French men-of-war. No information has been received with regard to any loss of life by British subjects; but I fear that there has been some loss of property, respecting which we are awaiting further information. Her Majesty's Ships Dryad and Dragon are at Tamatave, and Her Majesty's Ship Briton, which is now at Zanzibar, will be despatched to Madagascar if necessary.

MR. BOURKE

Will these Reports be laid on the Table?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

There will be no objection to lay the Reports on the Table.