HC Deb 13 March 1884 vol 285 cc1345-6
SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE

May I ask the noble Lord the Secretary of State for War, Whether Her Majesty's Government have received any further intelligence with regard to the reported fighting in the Soudan to-day?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

It may be convenient to the House that I should read a telegram which has been received at the War Office from General Graham. The telegram, which is dated "Osman Digna's Camp, 13th March, 11.40 A.M.," is in these terms— Camp taken after hard fighting since 8 o'clock. Killed, over 70, among whom Montresor, Almack, H. Stewart, Naval Brigade; Aitken, Royal Highlanders; Ford, York and Lancaster; about 100 wounded.

MR. TOTTENHAM

Have the Government any reason to suppose that these figures are not accurate, as there is a much greater proportion of killed to the wounded than usual?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Sir, the telegram which I have read is the only one which has been received at the War Office, and I cannot, therefore, give to the House any further information. I may, however, perhaps be permitted to say that I have telegraphed to General Graham, congratulating him on the success which he has gained, and on the conduct of his gallant troops, and asking him to report fully as to details, and also to report fully on the situation.

SIR HENRY TYLER

I beg to ask the noble Lord whether his attention has been called to a telegram in The Daily Telegraph to-day[Cries of"Order!"]

MR. SPEAKER

That is a Question which does not arise out of the Question of the hon. Member for Leitrim (Mr. Tottenham).

SIR HENRY TYLER

I will postpone it till Monday.