§ DR. TANNER (Cork Co., Mid)asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether Port Hamilton is to be abandoned; whether it was seized and the British ensign hoisted eighteen months ago; and, what are the reasons advanced for its being abandoned?
§ THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE (Sir JAMES FERGUSSON) (Manchester, N.E.)No decision has been taken to abandon Port Hamilton. It has 1477 been occupied by Her Majesty's Naval Forces since May 12, 1885.