HC Deb 12 April 1910 vol 16 c1050
Captain FABER

asked the Under-Secretary for the Colonies if he will state what was the following of the Mad Mullah in Somaliland, both as regards men and their number of rifles?

Colonel SEELY

It is impossible to give even a rough estimate.

Captain FABER

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the estimate given in "The Times" is correct?

Colonel SEELY

I should not like to make any statement about the accuracy of a statement in "The Times," especially at present.

Captain FABER

asked the Under-Secretary for the Colonies if he will state whether the orders given to General Manning upon the retirement of the British troops to the coast in Somaliland were that he was to satisfy himself that the friendly tribes were able to protect themselves; whether His Majesty's Government told General Manning how he was to satisfy himself; and whether the time was chosen for the advent of the monsoon, when the friendly tribes could easily be attacked by the Mullah?

Colonel SEELY

I would refer the hon. Member to the letter of instructions to Sir W. Manning which is printed at pages 74 and 75 of the Paper recently presented to Parliament. The reply to the last part of the hon. Member's question is in the negative.

Captain FABER

With reference to the first part of the question, if the Government policy proves to be a failure and the friendly tribes are cut up, will General Manning be available?