HC Deb 31 July 1913 vol 56 c740W
Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the cost to the Imperial Government of the maintenance of the military force in South Africa?

Colonel SEELY

My hon. Friend will find the information he requires on page 215 of the Army Estimates.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

also asked the Secretary for War if the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief the Forces in South Africa is empowered to furnish the Government of South Africa with troops in, connection with labour disputes without first receiving the sanction of the Governor-General?

Colonel SEELY

It appears that the proper official channel for a request for the use of Imperial troops in South Africa is the Governor-General. But it must be borne in mind that the action of officers in the Army wherever stationed is governed by King's Regulations. Under paragraph 974, in case of immediate and pressing danger, when violent crimes are being or are likely to be committed, an officer is empowered to take such action as he thinks necessary on his own responsibility. In this case the officer acted in accordance with King's Regulations, and Lord Gladstone, who was absent in Durban, gave his approval as soon as he was apprised of the facts.