§ MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETTasked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether any additional ships of war have been sent to Madagascar in addition to the "Dryad" and "Dragon," now off Tamatave; whether he will communicate to the House the telegrams received from Madagascar since June 30th; and, what steps are being taken by the Government to protect British subjects and property in Madagascar?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANSir, in answer to the hon. Member's first Question, I have to say that no additional ships of war have been sent to Madagascar. In answer to his second Question, the Government do not think it desirable that the telegrams which have been received should be communicated to the House pending the receipt of the despatches now on their way, of which those telegrams are only a summary. A general statement, however, has already been made of the contents of the telegrams. As to the third Question, Commander Johnstone, of the Dryad, received the usual instructions regarding the protection of British lives and property, and we have no reason to believe that, in any way, he has failed in his duty.
§ MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETTCan the hon. Member say if any further ships has been sent to the Mauritius?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI have answered the Question as it stood on the Paper. If the hon. Gentleman wants any further information, perhaps he will give Notice of it.