HC Deb 31 March 1884 vol 286 cc1146-7
LORD EUSTACE CECIL

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether, looking to the rapid approach of the hot season, and the reported enfeebled condition of many of our soldiers, he is now in a position to state what arrangements have been made for establishing a permanent garrison at Suakin, and for relieving the regiments at present stationed in the Soudan?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Sir, I have already made some reference to this subject in my answer to the right hon. Gentleman opposite (Sir Stafford Northcote), deferring any detailed answer until Thursday next, when the right hon. Gentleman will renew his Question; but I may say that although it is apparently the fact that on a very severe and trying inarch a large number of troops were seriously affected by the heat of the climate, yet there is no reason whatever to suppose that the force now at Suakin can, under ordinary circumstances, be described as being in an enfeebled condition. On the contrary, General Graham has reported that the health of the troops is remarkably good, there being no more than 2 per cent on the sick list.

LORD EUSTACE CECIL

said, he would repeat on Thursday that part of his Question that referred to the establishment of a permanent garrison at Suakin.