HC Deb 26 July 1909 vol 8 c842
Mr. FELL

asked if there is any regulation of the Board of Trade which forbids merchant vessels registered by the Board, and in British waters, to pass through-or cut the line of any fleet of men-of-war whilst in motion?

Mr. TENNANT

There is no regulation specifically forbidding merchant vessels from passing through the line of a squadron of warships; but a notice was issued by the Board of Trade in 1900 warning single ships in the interests of safety not to attempt to pass ahead of, or through, a squadron of warships. A copy of this notice has been sent to the hon. Member.

Mr. FELL

Are there any penalties in this notice falling upon ships which break that rule?

Mr. TENNANT

I should be glad to have notice of that question.