§ MR. DILLON (Mayo, E.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether Lord Kitchener has addressed any communication to the general in command of the Boer forces at Vlakfontein, or to Generals De Wet or Louis Botha, in reference to the alleged killing of British wounded at the battle of Vlakfontein, and, if he has, on what date that communication was made; whether Lord Kitchener has received any reply; and whether any correspondence which has passed between Lord Kitchener and the Boer generals on this subject will be laid upon the Table.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, GuildfordLord Kitchener telegraphs as follows—
I have made no communication with Boer leaders on shooting at Vlakfontein, as it is very unlikely to have any effect; even if Boer leaders disapprove of atrocities, they have no control over their men.Since the receipt of the above telegram, I have received to-day the following telegram—I am sending sworn depositions of Boers shooting our wounded to Delarey.
§ MR. LABOUCHERE (Northampton)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he will extend his inquiry as to the alleged shooting of British wounded by the Boers at Vlakfontein by taking the evidence of officers and men who were present, and are not amongst those who have already made statements in confirmation of the allegation.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe matter rests with Lord Kitchener, who may be relied upon to take all evidence that may be necessary and proper.