§ MR. HERBERT LEWIS (Flint Boroughs)I wish to ask a question of 875 which I have given private notice, namely, whether the right hon. Gentleman has any information with reference to the breaking of dams in South Africa since Lord Roberts' proclamation. Can the right, hon. Gentleman say to what extent the destruction has gone on?
MR. BRODRICK: I am afraid I cannot answer the question without notice.
§ MR. KEIR HARDIE (Merthyr Tydvil)But I sent notice of a similar question last night. It was to ask the Secretary for War if he can inform the House how many irrigation dams, referred to in Lord Roberts' proclamation of November 8th, have been destroyed in South Africa; whether the destruction of such dams does not turn the land into a sandy waste, and whether instructions have been given that the dams be rebuilt in order that crops may be grown, and the country saved from famine.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe hon. Member's notice only reached me at 9.30 this morning, and it has been impossible for me to have inquiry made.