§ MR. CHARLES MCARTHURI beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is intended to recall His Majesty's Gunboat "Espiegle" from Newchwang; and, if so, what steps, if any, is it proposed to take to protect British life and property at that port in the event of the foreign settlements being raided in the act of, or subsequent to, a withdrawal of the Russian croons now located there.
§ *EARL PERCYIt is intended to withdraw His Majesty's Ship "Espiegle" from Newchwang as soon as the river opens as she would be in considerable danger in the event of serious hostilities and her presence there would afford no effective protection either to life or property. The British and American Consuls have requested all women and children to leave the port, and will, no doubt, if circumstances render it necessary, give similar advice to other British and American nationals. Representations will be addressed by His Majesty's Government to the belligerents, requesting them to take such measures as circumstances may permit of, to safeguard the interests of British subjects.