§ 57. Colonel DAYasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has received any Reports of the punitive expedition to the Solomon Islands to avenge the recent murder of District-Commissioner Bell, Cadet Lillies, and 15 native policemen; whether this expedition is still in the island of Malaita, where the massacre occurred; and whether he can give a Report to the House of such information as he has?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREA special force of constabulary has been sent to the neighbourhood of the outrage for the purpose of restoring order and effecting the arrest of the perpetrators. A stiffening force from His Majesty's Australian Ship "Adelaide" was landed, but has since returned to the vessel. Heavy rains, mountainous country and thick bush have impeded the operations, but, despite the difficulties, two bases have been established, one near the site of the outrage and the other more inland. The natives who are being sought are believed to be hiding in the bush in small parties and one suspect has been arrested. Two other hostile natives have been killed, and one wounded, in the course of the advance, but no casualties among the police party have been reported. I may add that every endeavour is being made to arrest and bring to trial the murderers of the Protectorate officials without bloodshed.
§ Colonel DAYCan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the size of the police party?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI would like to have notice of that question.