SIR GILBERT PARKERI beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty what are the intentions of the Government regarding the future of the officers of the Royal Engineer submarine miners; and if it is still the intention to abolish submarine mining for coast and river defence.
§ MR. HALDANEAs regards the Militia R.E. submarine miners it is proposed to retain all suitable officers who are willing to stay as a reserve for duties in connection with electric lights. In the case of the Volunteer R.E. submarine miners it is proposed to retain the corps, and therefore the officers, at those places where their services are required in connection with electric light duties at an establishment suitable to the requirements in each case. As regards the last part of the Question I am not aware of any change in the general policy as regards 475 submarine mining, but this policy rests with the Admiralty.