HC Deb 13 November 1917 vol 99 cc197-8
22. Commander WEDGWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether it was for services at either the first or second battle of Gaza that General Sir A. Murray was mentioned in dispatches; where General Murray's head quarters were during those battles; and when the publication of the dispatches relating to them may be expected?

Mr. MACPHERSON

General Sir A. Murray was mentioned in dispatches dated 3rd November, 1917, for good work in connection with the organisation of certain minor expeditions and of the lines of communications in Palestine, which have maintained a large force in the desert, and thereby prepared the way for the successful operations, resulting in the defeat of the Turks at Gaza and Beersheba. As regards the latter part of the question, details will be found in the dispatch to be published shortly.

Commander WEDGWOOD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that he was not mentioned in the dispatches relating to the two battles?

Mr. MACPHERSON

My hon. Friend must give me notice. I have answered the question on the Paper.

Mr. HOGGE

Is it the fact that he was never out of Cairo?