HC Deb 15 February 1897 vol 46 cc391-2
MR. CALDWELL

On behalf of the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty (Mr. WEIR), I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state the nature of the difficulties which have arisen such as to necessitate a British cruiser being sent to Icelandic waters?

MR. CURZON

The presence of a cruiser in Icelandic waters is desirable during the fishing season, in order that proper advice and supervision may be available for British fishing vessels whose operations are carried on in the vicinity of the territorial waters of Iceland, and for the purpose of supplying Her Majesty's Government with trustworthy reports of any disputes which may arise in regard to fishery questions. The presence of a similar cruiser last year was found to be a great assistance to all parties.