§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked whether, in the interests of British commerce protection, the Admiralty would consider the desirability of permanently arming certain merchant steamers making long voyages with such weapons as would enable them to defend themselves against possible enemies of their own class; whether such weapons can be placed on board for use in emergency; and whether vessels so armed or provided could follow, when on their passages, such routes as may be determined by an Admiralty representative and the shipowners?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Admiralty are not prepared to recommend the action proposed in the question.