HC Deb 03 March 1884 vol 285 c355
MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETT

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether it is a fact that General Gordon has issued a Proclamation at Khartoum, in which he states that— I am forced against my will to send for British troops, who are now on the road, and will arrive in a few days. I shall severely punish all who will not change their conduct; and, whether British troops have been ordered to Khartoum, or are on their way thither? I also wish to ask, if the Government have received any confirmation of the unfavourable news that the political situation at Khartoum has become worse; and that if any disaster should overtake the 2,000 irregulars who have marched out against the enemy the place will certainly be lost?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

We have no information as to the latter Question. I must refer the hon. Member to the declaration made on the 23rd of last month by the Prime Minister, that the Government could not undertake, pending the time of full explanation, to make statements from day to day in regard to the language, steps, and views of General Gordon. British troops have not been ordered to Khartoum, and are not on their way thither.