§ SIR J. LENGI beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the chartered troopship "Simla" recently brought from India 1,022 men, 47 women, and 99 children; and whether consideration will be given to the serious risk incurred in the event of collision or shipwreck by crowding 1,168 persons, in addition to the crew, on board one vessel?
§ MR. PIRIE () Aberdeen, N.Before the right honourable Gentleman answers, 969 may I ask what was the boat accommodation on the "Simla"?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. G. J. GOSCHEN, St. George's,) Hanover SquareIt is not admitted that the "Simla" was overcrowded on her recent voyage from India. It is held that there is no more risk in the event of collision or shipwreck in the case of large ships than there is in the case of small ships. Indeed, experience shows that the risk is less. She carried the full complement of boats required by the regulations. I think that is the answer to the honourable Member for North Aberdeen.
§ MR. PIRIENo; I am afraid not. I wish to know if the hired transport "Simla" conies under the same class of ship as the "Nubia"?
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The honourable Member must give notice.
§ MR. SPEAKERIt is obvious notice must be given of such a Question as that.