HC Deb 07 November 1918 vol 110 cc2321-2W
Colonel DALRYMPLE WHITE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether it is the fact that gas shells have not been employed by us in German East Africa; if so, to whom is the refusal to use this means of offence due; and whether, with a view to the saving of life and treasure, he will take steps to warn the German commander that if he fails speedily to surrender, gas shells, which were invented by his own countrymen, will be used against him with a view of terminating the campaign?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Gas shells have not been so far used by us in East Africa, because the circumstances were such that the special conditions necessary to make their employment effective, have not so far existed. No special expedient, which might help to shorten the campaign, such as the employment of gas, will be left untried, should circumstances allow.