HC Deb 11 May 1911 vol 25 cc1377-8
Mr. HOUSTON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty for any instances or occasions since let January, 1906, where British subjects, in the absence of a British warship, have received assistance or protection from foreign warships, and particulars of the same; whether he will state if there is any instance or occasion where a British Minister or consul has applied to the captain of a German warship for protection and assistance, and particulars of same; and whether he will state what provision is being made by the Admiralty for further cruisers to protect British subjects and interests in British Colonies, possessions, and Protectorates, and the great trade routes of our mercantile marine vessels?

Mr. McKENNA

As regards the first two parts of the question, the Admiralty have not got the information asked for by +he hon. Member; and as regards the third part, the present provision is considered adequate.

Mr. HOUSTON

May I ask if the right hon. Gentleman has never heard of Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Zanzibar?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes; on frequent occasions.

Mr. HOUSTON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that those occasions were most injurious to British prestige?