§ MR. T. E. SMITHasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether any steps have been taken, or instructions sent to Her Majesty's Consuls, with a view to protect the large amount of British capital invested in river craft in the Danube, under a belief that the management of the navigation of that river was in the hands of the European Commission?
§ MR. BOURKESir, I can answer the hon. Gentleman's Question in the affirmative. Representations have been made by Her Majesty's Government to the Porte on the subject, and, in consequence, the Porte has given orders to the Commander-in-Chief on the Danube that as many facilities as are possible shall be given for the protection whilst in transmission up and down the Danube of vessels belonging to British subjects. Representations have also been made to the Russian Government respecting the detention of vessels, and such further instructions will be given to Her Majesty's Diplomatic Consular Agents as may appear to Her Majesty's Government, after consultation with the Law Officers, to be necessary for the protection of British interests.