HC Deb 28 June 1905 vol 148 cc366-7
MR SWIFT MACNEILL

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War when did it come to his knowledge that according to the statement in the Butler Committee important documents bearing on the South African contracts and refunds had been lost or destroyed; when did he take steps and give orders that all documents connected with the inquiry both at home or in South Africa should be impounded; whit are the steps he has taken for the impounding of these documents; and what assurance, if any, can he give the House of Commons that those steps will be effective.

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

In view of the further inquiry necessitated by the Report of Sir William Butler's Committee, the Army Council decided to impound all documents connected therewith. A telegram to this effect was accordingly despatched on June 19th to the General Officer Commanding, South Africa, to take the necessary measures. Corresponding action was also taken in regard to the documents in the War Office.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

The right hon. Gentleman has not told me exactly how those documents were impounded. In whose hands were they kept?

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

I am responsible for taking care of them.

MR. T. W. RUSSELL (Tyrone, S.)

When did the War Office get the Report?

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

I cannot say off-hand.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Was it not on April 13th?

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

No, the hon. Gentleman is quite mistaken.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

What was the date, Sir.

MR. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must give notice.