§ LORD RANDOLPH CHURCHILL (Paddington, S.)asked the Secretary of 1016 State for War, Whether the Military Authorities at the head quarters at home were consulted before it was decided by the Government to send a British battalion to Suakin; and, whether they approve of the policy of despatching so slender a reinforcement of British troops?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. E. STANHOPE) (Lincolnshire, Horncastle)The decision to offer to the Egyptian Government the assistance of British troops at Suakin was taken by Her Majesty's Government on their own responsibility. The local military authorities originally intended to undertako these operations with their own troops only; but the amount of British force now sent is that asked for, in consequence of our offer, by those responsible for the operations at Suakin, and has been thought ample for the purpose. I have had a representation from my military advisers on the subject, and I have accordingly telegraphed again to Egypt; but the last message received from General Grenfell was that he was confident of success with his present force.
§ LORD RANDOLPH CHURCHILLIn consequence of the answer of the right hon. Gentleman, I shall think it my duty to draw attention to this subject by a specific Motion when the Questions are concluded.