Monthly Archives: August 2010

Tony Smith, MP in the Australian Parliament, member for Casey has been an enthusiastic supporter for pardons for Lieutenants Morant, Handcok and Witton.  His support follows similar staements made by other MPs including Senator McGaurin, Alex Hawke, MP and Greg … Continue reading →

Petition – George Ramsdale Witton George Witton was sentenced to penal servitude for life on 27 February 1902. He was released from prison after a concerted effort by the Australian and South African governments and citizens of both countries.  A petition … Continue reading →

After Witton’s imprisonment in February 1902, a campaign for his release was mounted in Australia and England.  Support for Witton attracted the support of thousands of citizens, public figures, politicians in Australia, South Africa and Britain including, Edmund Barton, Alfred Deakin and … Continue reading →

During the trials and according to the book written and published by George Witton, Morant made the following statement to the court. In part it stated: ‘In the case of Visser I gave the fullest explanation of my position and … Continue reading →

One of the most controversial aspects of the case for the defence of Lieutenants Morant, Handcock and Witton has been their claim that they followed orders in shooting Boer prisoners.  Critics over the decades have consistently criticised the defence argument … Continue reading →