§ MR. EMMOTT (Oldham)I beg to ask the Postmaster General, as representing the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether Sir Frederick Lugard intends to send a military expedition to Sokoto before the Delimitation Commission commences its work; and whether any military operations are in progress or in contemplation in Southern Nigeria at the present time; and, if so, for what purpose.
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINThe British Commissioners met the French Commissioners at Junju on the 6th instant, and the Commission has now probably begun its work. The questions whether the force which has occupied Kano will proceed to Sokoto, and, if so, when, depend upon the local, political, and military situation, but Sir F. Lugard has authority to send a force to Katsena, 494 and, if necessary, to Sokoto. Beyond the patrolling of certain unsettled districts, no military operations are in progress or in contemplation in Southern Nigeria.
§ MR. EMMOTTHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the report in the Morning Post as to certain expeditions into Southern Nigeria? Is it correct?
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINI can give the hon. Gentleman no information beyond that I have just read.