HC Deb 13 November 1884 vol 293 cc1588-9
SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE

There is a telegram in several evening papers of a disquieting character, in which it is stated that a telegram has been received through Reuter's Agency in Paris to this effect— At a Cabinet Council, held this morning, M. Jules Ferry communicated despatches, from which it would appear that General Gordon has been shot dead while on the way from Khartoum to Berber. I wish to ask whether any news has been received by the Foreign Office in reference to this matter?

LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICE

No, Sir; no such information has been received at the Foreign Office. The only information at all bearing on this subject that has been received by the Foreign Office is a telegram received yesterday, which I wish to read to the House. It is dated the 12th of No- vember, and is from Sir Evelyn Baring to Lord Granville, in which the former says— The French Consul General has communicated to me information which he has received viâ Massowah and Suakin to the effect that Khartoum has fallen and Gordon has been massacred. This is probably only the same rumour which reached us down the Nile Valley some time ago. It is almost inconceivable that if the news be true it should not be known at Dongola.

MR. BOURKE

Perhaps I may be allowed to put a Question which will allay anxiety with respect to General Gordon. Can the noble Lord state whether General Wolseley has sent despatches home during the last day or two with regard to the possibility of communicating with Khartoum?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

I do not recollect that Lord Wolseley in any recent despatch has referred to the possibility or otherwise of communicating with Khartoum.

MR. O'KELLY

Has the Government communicated with General Wolseley in reference to this rumour?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

When the rumours were so prevalent a short time ago as to the fall of Khartoum and the death of General Gordon, Lord Wolseley was asked by Sir Evelyn Baring whether, in his opinion, there was any foundation for the reports. His reply was, I think, communicated to the House.