HC Deb 30 June 1904 vol 137 c156
DR. HUTCHINSON (Sussex, Rye)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the fact that the beri-beri outbreak was first reported in this country more than a week ago, he can explain the causes of delay in receiving news from South Africa, and now give the House full information on the subject.

MR. LYTTELTON

I gave the House yesterday all the information which I have so far received on the subject. The contents of the telegram from Lord Milner which I read yesterday appear to me to show that Lord Milner and his medical advisers do not regard the occurrence of this not uncommon disease as involving any very special difficulty. This accounts for his not having treated the matter as one demanding urgent communication home.

MR. CORRIE GRANT (Warwickshire, Rugby)

Has the right hon. Gentleman received from Lord Milner any explanation of his failure to answer the cable?

MR. LYTTELTON

I have answered that Question.