§ Colonel BOWDENasked the Under-Secretary of state for War how it is that, while hon. Members have been asking for the report in connection with the Empire Battalion, the "Globe" newspaper to-day has printed what assumes to be a full 2144 report, and whether, in view of the misleading effect upon the public mind caused by this premature publication, he will now make a statement on this matter?
§ Mr. TENNANTThe notice which the hon. and gallant Gentleman has given me has only just been put into my hands. Therefore, I have had no opportunity of seeing what is reported in the "Globe" newspaper. Consequently, I am unable to say whether that report is true and accurate, and anything like a full report, or merely a picturesque account of what occurred at the proceedings in connection with the Empire Battalion. In these circumstances, I hardly think the House would expect me to make a statement on a matter of this importance.
§ Colonel BOWDENAs this is a matter of great public interest and deep concern to myself personally, is the right hon. Gentleman in a position to make a statement, or will he make a statement tomorrow? An explanation has been promised time after time. Will the report in its official form be on the Table to-morrow and be in a position to be debated?
§ Mr. TENNANTThe report will be in the hands of hon. Gentlemen this evening.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMHow has this report got into the "Globe" newspaper?
§ Colonel BOWDENI much regret to say that the thing is so unsatisfactory that I must give notice on the Adjournment of the House to-night to raise this subject. I very much regret to have to occupy the time of the House in doing so.
§ Mr. TENNANTMy hon. Friend asked how this report got into the newspaper. I should very much like to know myself.
§ Colonel BOWDENI sincerely hope that you will know.