I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether any written despatches have been received from the Commander-in-Chief in South Africa since Lord Roberts's despatch of 15th November, 1900; and, if so, whether, in view of the meagre character of the telegraphic despatches and the censorship of extra-official sources of information, these despatches will be published before the debate on the Second Reading of the Appropriation Bill.

No despatches have been received.

Will the right hon. Gentleman wire to Lord Kitchener requesting despatches as soon as possible?

I have no doubt that Lord Kitchener will send the despatches as soon as he finds it desirable.