MR. HERBERT ROBERTS (Denbighshire, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether he will state what arrangements have been made, or will be made, for the sick and wounded among the British troops in China.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Lord G. HAMILTON, Middlesex, Baling)With the troops proceeding from India, numbering about 9,600 officers and men, thirty-three sections of field hospitals are being sent (825 beds); and in reply to a query from me the Viceroy has telegraphed that "they are fully provided with medical stores, which need not be sent specially from England." In addition to these troops from India, about 1,400 British officers and men are proceeding from Hong Kong, South Africa, and England. I am asking Hong Kong what field hospitals were sent on with their contingent. Three hospital ships are being provided. One by the Government of India; one, the "Maine," by the generosity of the Atlantic Transport Company and the benevolent exertions of American ladies; and one by the munificence of his Highness the Maharaja Sindia of Gwalior. These will all be fully equipped in every respect. The "Maine" sailed from Southampton on the 11th instant. In addition to these vessels, General Gaselee has been authorised, should he deem it necessary, to convert three selected transports into hospital ships. As soon as he reaches Wei-hai-wei, General Gaselee will report fully on the suitability of that place for the location of his base hospitals.