asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how far the western terminus of the railway in Eritrea is from the Sudan and Abyssinian boundaries?

I am advised that the western terminus of the Eritrea railway is probably situated at Biskia, approximately 60 miles east of the Sudan frontier and roughly the same distance north of the Abyssinian frontier. As it is possible that further construction is, however, taking place, I cannot guarantee the accuracy of the foregoing.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the extension is in the direction of the Abyssinian boundary or the Sudan boundary?

I have said that further construction is reported to be taking place, but I cannot guarantee the accuracy of the statement.