HC Deb 14 August 1882 vol 273 cc1675-6
Sir EDWARD WATKIN

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty, What has been done, or, if nothing, what is intended to be done, with the thirty-six complete armaments prepared by the late First Lord of the Admiralty for merchant steamers, to be used, in case of need, as vessels of war, to defend the ocean routes of British commerce?

MR. CAMPBELL - BANNERMAN

Sir, the armaments to which the hon. Member refers are intended to be put on board merchant ships in time of war, and they are available for that purpose if required.