§ MR. GOURLEY (Sunderland)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether H. M. S. Colossus, whilst on her way home to pay off (after being on the Mediterranean Station for three years), owing to the loss of the Victoria has been ordered back, thus causing many of the crew to break their leave and otherwise misconduct themselves, five being sent to prison at Malta, three placed in cells, and others subjected to minor punishments; and whether the Admiralty will consider the advisability of not keeping the men of this vessel so long sepa- 1280 rated from their relatives in a time of peace?
THE SECRETARY TO THE ADMIRALTY (Sir U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH,) Lancashire, ClitheroeThe Colossus was on her way home when, in consequence of the loss of the Victoria, it was necessary to detain her on the station for some time longer, in the interests of the Public Service. No Report has been received of such misconduct on the part of the crew as is suggested in the question. H. M. S. Anson was commissioned on the 12th instant, and will shortly relieve the Colossus.
MR. GIBSON BOWLESCan the right hon. Gentleman say why the Trafalgar, which was commissioned after the Colossus, was relieved before her?