§ MR. MACVEAGHI beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether any communication has reached the India Office on the subject of the resignation, transfer, or recall of General Sir E. R. Elles.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR-INDIA (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, GuildfordI have really nothing to add to the Answer I gave yesterday†. I have had
† See page 253.373 no communication on the subject except the despatch which was published to the House, in which Sir E. Elles stated that he had but a few months to serve, but if any changes were contemplated in has department he would desire to offer his resignation. Those changes are contemplated, and, that being so, he will probably desire to offer his resignation. In that case care will be taken that he will not be the loser by any changes.
§ MR. MACVEAGHIt is stated in the newspapers that General Elles has stated that he has resigned, and that he under-stands that his resignation has been accepted. Has he resigned, and does the Secretary for India understand that he has resigned, and that his resignation has been accepted?
§ MR. BRODRICKI cannot answer more clearly than I have already done.
§ MR. MACVEAGHYou can say "Yes" or "No."
§ MR. BRODRICKHe has indicated his intention of resigning if certain changes were made. Since then have received no communication from General Elles, but it has been intimated to the Government of India that certain changes will be made which will, no doubt, involve General Elles's resignation.
§ MR. MACVEAGHHow many communications have been received, from Lord Kitchener on this matter?
[No Answer was returned.]