Captain FABERasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, if he would state what were the circumstances which led to the giving of an official reception by the Commander-in-Chief, Vice-Admiral Sir W. May, and the officers of H.M.S. "Dreadnought," to certain reputed Abyssinian princes and their staff; whether these reputed Abyssinians were received by the admiral and the officers of the ship with full naval honours; whether by the admiral's orders they were furnished with a special train on the return journey to London; and whether any inquiry had yet been held?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)With regard to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. and gallant Gentleman to the reply given to the right hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for Epping last Thursday. No flags were hoisted or salutes fired, and no special train was ordered by the Admiral.
Captain FABERIs it not a fact that certain pairs of white kid gloves were actually purchased for the occasion, and can the right hon. Gentleman say who will pay the expense?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am afraid that the hon. and gallant Gentleman is better informed than I am, but if he will kindly give notice of his question I will inquire into the matter.