HC Deb 30 March 1900 vol 81 cc791-2
MR. HERBERT ROBERTS (Denbighshire, W.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India, whether he is in a position to give in detail the contributions of India to the war in South Africa as regards men, horses, and military equipment; and whether, in view of the value of India in the military defence of the Empire demonstrated in this war, the Government will give an opportunity for the discussion of the claim of the Government of India for relief from some portion of its home military charges, before the Indian Budget discussion at the end of the session.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Lord G. HAMILTON,) Middlesex, Ealing

As far as I am able to furnish details, the contributions of India to the war in South Africa up to date are approximately as follows:—Officers and men (British), 8,215; natives (non-combatants), 5,717; horses, 6,700; mules and ponies, 1,510; field guns, 50; Maxim, naval, and machine guns, 15. There are besides, artillery waggons, ambulance carts, and a large supply of boots, saddles, haversacks, warm coats, tents, and other equipment. All supplies of Indian material and animals were paid for on terms not unfavourable to the factories or agencies furnishing them. The subject of the home military charges was specially referred to the Royal Commission on the Administration of the Expenditure of India, whose Report has not yet been received.

SIR HENRY FOWLER (Wolverhampton, E.)

When does the noble Lord expect that the long delayed Report will be received?

LORD G. HAMILTON

I have no control over the Commission. I understand that we are very shortly to receive the Report, with the subsidiary Reports of the individual members of the Commission.

MR. HERBERT ROBERTS

Is there any chance of the Report being received before Easter?

LORD G. HAMILTON

I know nothing about it. I have no control in the matter.