§ MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETTasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether Her Majesty's Government have any confirmation of the statements that the French Forces invading Madagascar are to be increased by 1890 troops from Tonquin, and that a march on the capital is to be undertaken; and, what steps are being taken to protect the rights of British subjects in Madagascar, and to obtain compensation for the heavy losses they have sustained owing to the French operations?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICEHer Majesty's Government have no such information. An efficient Consular Staff is watching over the interests of British subjects. Claims for compensation cannot be settled till the conclusion of hostilities.
§ MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETTWith regard to the reply of the noble Lord, as to the losses of British subjects, I may remind him that he made a similar reply three months ago. I would ask him what is the date—if he is able to give it—of the last communication from Her Majesty's principal Consul at Madagascar; and, whether any progress whatever has been made in paying compensation to British subjects?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICEIt would be much better if the hon. Member would put the Question on the Paper. I do not wish not to reply altogether to the Question; and may say, however, that the communications which passed were not communications made by the Consul.
§ MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETTI shall call attention on the Diplomatic Vote, or on some other Vote, to the inaction of the Government in regard to this important question.