COLONEL STANLEYasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether any further information could be given as to 626 the withdrawal of any portion of the British Forces from Suakin?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONI am not able to state yet the final arrangements as to the strength and disposition of the garrison at Suakin and the neighbouring positions. All I can say at present is that orders have been sent for the return of the Brigade of Guards as soon as possible, and that arrangements have been made for the return to Australia of the Australian Contingent.
COLONEL STANLEYMight I ask upon that point whether it is intended before the Australian Contingent returns to Australia that they, either as a whole or any detachment of them, should have an opportunity of coming to this country?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONThat subject has been considered; but it has not been found that satisfactory or convenient arrangements for that purpose could be made. I do not think I could give any further information without Notice; but no official arrangements have been made on the subject.