§ MR. O'DONNELLasked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, If it is true that the New South Wales Ministry had no legal authority to send a contingent of armed men to carry on hostile operations in that part of the Ottoman Empire called the Soudan?
§ MR. EVELYN ASHLEYNo doubt the Act establishing the Colonial Forces in question did not contain any provision for their employment in foreign countries; but the New South Wales Government did not hesitate to take the responsibility involved in promptly despatching the Contingent to the Soudan, and then applied without delay to the Legislature to confirm their action, which it did fully and readily. I should like to quote, as part of my answer, the striking words of Mr. Dalley, the acting Colonial Secretary of New South Wales, who replied as follows to strictures made on the Administration, for their initiatory and independent action:—
We prefer, thank God, slight constitutional improprieties to the abandonment of duty, the neglect of great opportunities, and we prefer the glory of giving a noble example.
§ MR. O'DONNELLWill the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies inform the House what is the international position of armed men, so raised without Constitutional authority, employed against any foreign Government?
§ MR. MACFARLANEHave the Australian Contingent volunteered for service in India if required?
§ MR. EVELYN ASHLEYYes, Sir; they have.
§ MR. WILLIAM REDMONDasked whether the despatch of troops from New South Wales was not subjected to adverse criticism in the Assembly; and, how many Members declared by their votes that it was unwise and unjust? [Cries of "Do not answer!"]
§ MR. EVELYN ASHLEYI am unable, without Notice, to answer that Question.