§ MR. STEVENSON (Suffolk, Eye)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he could state what is approximately the total numerical strength of the Turkish forces in Crete; and whether it is intended that the decision as to the general question of the retention or withdrawal of those forces shall rest with the Admirals, or merely that they shall settle the details connected with the method of withdrawal, in accordance with principles already laid down, or shortly to be laid down, by the Powers chiefly concerned?
MR. CURZONThe total numerical strength of the Turkish forces in Crete is believed to be approximately 18,290 men, being 13,520 soldiers and 4,770 gendarmerie. The general question of the retention or withdrawal of these forces is a matter for ultimate arrangement by the Governments of the Powers concerned with the Porte, but the views of the Admirals on the subject will be, of course duly considered.
§ MR. LEGH (Lancashire, Newton)Can the right honourable Gentleman say whether all the Powers are now represented in Cretan waters with the exception of Germany and Austria?