§ MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDERasked the Secretary of State for War, If he can state why an officer was sent from England to take command of a brigade in the Expeditionary Force under Major General Sir Gerald Graham, V.O., K.C.B., although there are now in Egypt three Major Generals or Brigadier Generals available for that duty, more especially as it is doubtful whether the officer so sent from England can reach his command in time to take part in the relief of Tokar?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONColonel Sir Redvers Buller, who is, I presume, the Brigadier referred to in this Question, was specially asked for from Egypt as being an officer well skilled in irregular warfare. Of the three Major Generals or Brigadier Generals referred to by the hon. and gallant Member, one is senior to Sir Gerald Graham, and, therefore, could not be employed. Another is Chief of the Staff in Egypt, and it was not considered desirable to take him from his post. The third has accompanied the Expedition to Suakim. It is hoped that Sir Redvers Buller will reach Trinkitat in time to take part in the operations against the rebels.
§ MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDERThere is one other general officer—General Earle.