§ MR. GOURLEYasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether the Government intend building portable shallow water steel-clad steamers suitable for the protection of the Lower and Upper Nile Valleys; if so, whether he can inform the House what number are to be ordered, also how they are to be armed, and when they are to be ready for shipment to Alexandria?
THE MARQUESS OF HAETINGTONWe are making every preparation to afford Lord Wolseley all the assistance he may require in the matter of steamers for the Nile or otherwise; but, in the interests of the Expedition, I must ask hon. Members not to expect me to describe in detail the preparations, knowledge of which might become valuable to the enemy.