HC Deb 18 June 1901 vol 95 c701
MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that on the 10th instant, when the War Office announced Lord Kitchener's denial of the report concerning the alleged surprise of General Beyer's commando, Reuter's Telegram Company telegraphed to their agent at Cape Town for the full facts, and on the 14th instant were advised by the Cable Company that their message of inquiry had been stopped by the censor; and will he state under what circumstances this telegram was suppressed, and what action has been taken by Lord Kitchener in regard to the person who communicated from Pretoria on the 5th of June the report, the truth of which has been denied by Lord Kitchener.

MR. BRODRICK

I am not aware of the action imputed to the censor. Lord Kitchener has warned the agent to be more careful, but is of opinion that the case is not one for suspension.

MR. WEIR

Will the right hon. Gentleman obtain the other information asked for in the question?

MR. BRODRICK

I do not think the matter is sufficiently important for further inquiry.