§ MR. LONSDALE () Armagh, MidI beg to ask the Undersecretary of State 231 for Foreign Affairs whether he will state the present position of affairs in Somaliland; and whether it is intended to place the conduct of the forthcoming campaign in the hands of the War Office.
*LORD CRANBORNESince Colonel Swayne's withdrawal to Bohotle General Manning has been engaged in improving and strengthening the lines of communication between that place and Berbera. Small parties of the Mullah's horsemen have been observed near Bohotle, but no attempt at interference has been made by them, nor have any reports been received of an intended advance by the Mullah. His Majesty's Government are in close communication with the Italian Government on the general situation. The conduct of the military operations has been transferred to the War Office.
MR. GIBSON BOWLESCan the noble Lord say why the conduct of the affair has been transferred to the War Office?
*LORD CRANBORNEThat is a matter which rests with my right hon. friend at the head of the Government.