75. Mr. HEALYasked the Secretary of State for War whether General Maxwell made any report to the War Office in reference to the part taken by Major Sir Francis Vane after the three murders committed by Captain Colthurst in Portobello Barracks; and was Major Vane's action in informing Lord Kitchener of the murders approved or disapproved of by General Maxwell?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe General Officer Commanding-in-Chief the Forces in Ireland has made no report to the War Office in reference to the part taken by Sir Francis Vane after the regrettable incident at Portobello Barracks.
Mr. HEALYIs it not the fact that Sir Francis Vane has been called upon by the War Office to resign because of General Maxwell's report?
§ Mr. FORSTERI understand that we have had no report from General Maxwell.
Mr. HEALYWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether the War Office has not called on Major Sir Francis Vane to resign within the last week, in consequence of the report of General Maxwell?
§ Mr. FORSTERSo far as I am aware, it is not so. Perhaps my hon. and learned Friend will give notice.
§ Mr. KINGThe hon. Gentleman has given no answer to the last part of the question. It seems to have been overlooked?
§ Mr. FORSTERIt was not overlooked. We have had no report from the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief.