HC Deb 13 March 1902 vol 104 cc1254-5
MR. O'DOWD (Sligo, S.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he can name the date fixed upon for the trial of Kritzinger, or whether it is proposed that this officer should be exchanged as a prisoner of war for Lord Methuen.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, Guildford

The reply to both questions is in the negative. Kritzinger's trial had been originally fixed, as I informed the House, but was postponed, as consideration of the evidence was not complete. As regards Lord Methuen, I understand that he and Colonel Townsend were expected at Klerksdorp today at two p.m. The medical officer in attendance reports them to he doing well.

SIR H. GAMPBELL BANNERMAN (Stirling Burghs)

The statement of the right hon. Gentleman leaves us in some degree of uncertainty. He speaks of Lord Methuen and Colonel Townsend being expected at Klerksdorp today. Does that mean that they have been released from captivity, or that they are going to be released and handed over to the British authorities? Or what does it mean?

MR. BRODRICK

That is not specifically mentioned in the telegram, but I presume, from the fact that they are arriving at Klerksdorp, and under the attendance of a British medical officer, that they have been released.

MR. T. M. HEALY (Louth, N.)

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if the British Government will be equally magnanimous and release Kritzinger?

[No answer was given.]