§ EARL SPENCERMy Lords, I wish to ask the noble Marquess at the head of the Government if he can give the House any information as to the result of negotiations between Lord Kitchener and the Boer leader.
§ THE PRIME MINISTER AND LORD PRIVY SEAL (The Marquess of SALISBURY)My Lords, such information as I have I shall be glad to give, though I am afraid it will not be satisfactory to the noble Earl. General Botha has informed Lord Kitchener by letter that he is not disposed to recommend the terms of peace which Lord Kitchener had been instructed to offer to the earnest consideration of his Government, and he adds that his Government and chief officers are entirely in agreement with his views. Papers in connection with these negotiations will be laid on the Table at once.