§ MR. CHAPLIN (for Mr. SCLATER-BOOTH)asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether he will lay upon the Table the terms of the contract or arrangement with Messrs. Lucas having reference to the construction of the Suakin-Berber Railway?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONYes, Sir; the document embodying the arrangement with Messrs. Lucas, Aird, and Co., will be presented to Parliament.
§ MR. CHAPLINasked, whether the noble Marquess could give any definite statement as to when the railway might be completed; and, whether it would be completed in time to afford assistance to Lord Wolseley in the event of his renewing hostile operations against the Mahdi after the hot season?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONIt is impossible for me to form any accurate estimate when the railway will be completed. There can be no doubt, however, that, from a military point of view, whatever may be the progress of the railway, it will be of considerable assistance to any military operations which may be hereafter undertaken.
§ MR. CHAPLINBy Lord Wolseley?