43. Colonel BURNasked the Secretary of State for War if 10 British officers are now at Shanghai in charge of repatriated coolies of the Chinese labour corps; when will these officers be able to return to this country; and what sum is fixed by the Government for their maintenance while at Shanghai?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONAuthority has been given for these officers to return to England either via Suez or via Canada, and it is not anticipated that any considerable delay will occur in their embarking as soon as their duties in China are completed. Arrangements have also been made for the Command Paymaster at Hong Kong to issue advances of pay and detention allowance to them while waiting at Shanghai.
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI have not got the amount with me, but I shall be very glad to communicate it to the hon. and gallant Gentleman.