§ SIR EDWARD BIRKBECK (Norfolk, E.)asked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether, taking into consideration the fact that the class of cruisers hitherto used for the protection of the fisheries on the East Coast of England are quite unsuitable for the work upon which they are employed, owing to their being old and obsolete vessels, which renders them quite useless to enforce the provisions of the North Sea Fisheries Convention during the autumn and winter months, he will, without further delay, have these vessels replaced by modern ones which are superior, and at least equal to, those vessels in seagoing capabilities whose interests they have to maintain?
§ THE SECRETARY TO THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. HIBBERT) (Oldham)The Hearty, a powerful vessel and well adapted for the service, is now being fitted for the protection of the fisheries on the East Coast. I hope the hon. Member will consider this a satisfactory answer to his Question.