§ MR. L. P. HAYDEN (Roscommon, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether the office held by Sir Jacobus A. De Wet is one of those which becomes vacated under the 65-year rule: and whether it is under that rule the retirement of Sir Jacobus is to take place?
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINThe answer to both questions is in the negative. I may, perhaps, inform the House that I have just learnt with regret that it is necessary for Sir Jacobus De Wet to take leave of absence, his health having broken down for the fourth time in eight months. I am now bringing his claims to a retiring allowance under the favourable consideration of the Treasury. ["Hear, hear."]