HC Deb 09 April 1891 vol 352 c130
DR. CAMERON (Glasgow, College)

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Foreign Office has yet received particulars of the capture of the steamship Countess of Carnarvon by the Portuguese on the Limpopo River; and whether he is in a position to give any information on the subject to the House?

SIR J. FERGUSSON

The particulars have not yet been received in an authentic form. The reports as to the facts are so conflicting that no reliable information can be given.

DR. CAMERON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many weeks ago a statement on the subject was issued by the Portuguese Government— how is it that we are so far behind?

SIR J. FERGUSSON

I can only say that information has been telegraphed for, but the region where the event took place is not within reach of the telegraph.

DR. CAMERON

Is it not the fact that the Cape papers have published full details?

SIR J. FERGUSSON

I am not aware.

DR. CAMERON

Then I will repeat the question on another day.