§ 95. Mr. T. JOHNSTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if Osman Digna, who has been a prisoner for many years at Wadi Halfa, has expressed a desire to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca before he dies; and if the Government can see its way to grant the request?
§ Mr. McNEILLAs the hon. Member knows from a report of which I recently sent him a copy, Osman Digna has expressed some such desire to a member of the Sudan Government, who are understood to be considering the possibility of acceding to his request. From the same source, the hon. Member has learnt what scrupulous care is being taken for the safety and comfort of Osman Digna, and the reasons which make it doubtful whether in his own interest he should be permitted to undergo the rigours of a pilgrimage.
Lieut.-Colonel J. WARDWill the hon. Gentleman give every possible consideration and concession to this bonny old fighter I had the pleasure of meeting in the Sudan over 40 years ago?
§ Mr. McNEILLThe matter is under consideration.