§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the gravity of the situation is increasing in China; whether British interests predominate over any other country; and, if so, whether the Admiralty intend to strengthen the squadron in those waters?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Churchill)Two cruisers have been ordered from Australia to join the China Squadron temporarily, and will reach China waters shortly. This step has been taken as a measure of precaution in view of possible developments. I must ask to be excused from making any general statement as to affairs in China.