§ SIR GILBERT PARKER (Gravesend)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he can now say what decision the Government have come to regarding the re-stationing of ships in the West Indies; and, if so, how many cruisers will be kept in the West Indian waters.
§ MR. EDMUND ROBERTSONThe "Indefatigable," "Brilliant, "and "Scylla," nineteen-knot cruisers, are to be permanently stationed on the North America and West Indian Station; and during portions of the year the Fourth Cruiser Squadron, consisting of three first-class armoured cruisers, will visit the West Indian Islands. The "Brilliant" is detached to Newfoundland during the fishery season.
§ SIR GILBERT PARKERWill the three cruisers be more in the West Indian waters than on the Atlantic coast?
§ MR. EDMUND ROBERTSONasked for notice.
§ MR HAROLD COX (Preston)Is it intended to ask the West Indies to make any contribution towards the cost?
§ MR. EDMUND ROBERTSONI am not aware.