§ MR. JOHN ELLIS (Nottinghamshire Rushcliffe)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether the policy and practice of burning farm buildings, mills, cottages, and other buildings in South Africa for military reasons has been discontinued; and, if so, at what date and on whose instructions; and whether he can supplement the figures given up to the end of January, 1901, in the Return laid before the House by the figures for any and each of the months since, during which this destruction may have been carried into effect.
§ MR. BRODRICKI informed the House some time ago that, except in 1459 cases of treachery and certain recognised military offences, farm houses would not be burned. Specific orders to this effect were given by Lord Kitchener on 7th December, 1900, and I have every reason to think they have been observed. I have no further information as to numbers, but I have requested Lord Kitchener to have a return prepared.
§ MR. FLAVIN (Kerry, N.)May I ask whether houses have been burned indiscriminately, whether occupied or not?
§ MR. BRODRICKI do not think that can be the case. The Return will show the details.
§ MR. FLAVINMay I inform the right hon. Gentlemans—(cries of "Order.")
§ MR. SPEAKERThe hon. Member cannot impart information by way of a question.
§ MR. FLAVINMay I ask whether it is a fact that vacant houses have been burned by the British authorities?
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! That has been answered.
§ MR. FLAVINI have it on the statement of one of the Volunteers who burned the houses down.