§ Mr. HUNTasked what naval provision now exists on the West Coast of South America for the protection of British lives and property in the event of war between two South American States (Peru and Ecuador)?
§ Mr. McKENNAHis Majesty's ships "Shearwater" and "Algerine" are the two vessels employed on the Pacific Coast of America.
§ Mr. HUNTMay I ask are not these two vessels at Vancouver, and are they not only sloops of 1,000 tons; and whether it is a fact that a comparatively short time ago six British war vessels were actively employed in protecting British subjects during one of the South American wars?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe last part of the question shows how easy it is for the British Admiralty to send warships wherever they may be required. The answer to the other parts I believe to be in the affirmative, but if the hon. Member will put them down I shall be glad to answer them.
§ Mr. HUNTAre we to understand that there are no British ships nearer than these two vessels, and that these two are only useless sloops'?
§ Mr. McKENNANo. Sir, the hon. Member is not to understand what he says in the latter part of the question.
§ Mr. WILLIAM PEELDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that Vancouver is a satisfactory position for those ships to be stationed?
§ Mr. McKENNANo, Sir. If the ships had been intended for the defence of people in Peru and Ecuador they would not be stationed at Vancouver. These are the two ships upon the station, and they are the nearest to the coast of Ecuador.
§ Earl WINTERTONWill the interest of British subjects, which are distinctly at stake, be properly safeguarded?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, Sir. We shall take the advice of the Foreign Office.