HC Deb 13 March 1884 vol 285 cc1330-1
MR. GIBSON

asked the Secretary of State for War, Has he ascertained how many Soudanese troops were killed at El Teb, and how many were wounded on the same occasion; and, will he state what are the estimated figures?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Sir, the only information I have with reference to this subject is contained in a telegram from General Graham, which has already been published, in which he reports that the losses of the rebels have been very heavy, nearly 900 bodies having been buried, irrespective of those killed in the Cavalry operations.

MR. GIBSON

That was the telegram received the morning after the engagement.

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Yes.

MR. GIBSON

But has the Government never asked since whether it was true, as stated in the newspapers, that our troops buried 2,500 dead bodies of the Soudanese troops, and that nearly 6,000 were wounded?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

We are expecting to receive almost immediately from General Graham full despatches, which will, no doubt, contain the details asked for by the right hon. and learned Gentleman.

MR. GIBSON

I will ask this Question again on Monday.