HC Deb 05 May 1884 vol 287 c1325
MR. A. ROSS

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether, after the receipt of General Sir Gerald Graham's telegraphic despatch to the Secretary of State for War, dated 25th March 1884, stating that 150 women of Sinkat were alive in the mountains, any instructions have been sent to Consul Baker to attempt, through the mediation of the friendly tribes, either by ransom or otherwise, to obtain the release of these unfortunate women?

MR. LABOUCHERE

asked whether the noble Lord had received any information that these women desired to be released?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

It has not been thought necessary to repeat the instructions conveyed in the telegram to General Graham of the 10th of March (Egypt, No. 12, page 157). The authorities at Suakin will, no doubt, use every endeavour to procure the release of the captives.