HC Deb 09 August 1901 vol 99 cc271-2
MR. DILLON (Mayo, E.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether, in the case of the killing of † See page 26. Godefroy at St. Helena, an investigation before a coroner was demanded by the Boer prisoners, which demand was refused; and, if so, can he state why it was refused; whether at the military inquiry which did take place the friends of Godefroy were represented; and whether his representatives were allowed to cross-examine the military witnesses; whether the committee of Boer prisoners who communicated with the Governor in reference to this incident have sent in any statement; and, if so, whether such statement was considered by the court which conducted the inquiry; and whether he will allow the Member for East Mayo to have access to any correspondence which has passed between the camp committee, the Governor, and the president of the court in reference to the shooting of Godefroy, and to the official record of the proceeding of the court.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Lord STANLEY, Lancashire, Westhoughton)

The report called for has not yet arrived. I am not therefore in a position to answer the question.

MR. DILLON

Seeing that this occurred in the month of February last, and as there are means of telegraphic communication, cannot the noble Lord get the information?

LORD STANLEY

I can only say I have asked for the report and it has not yet arrived.

MR. DILLON

I shall repeat this question.