Mr. KINGasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to inform the House what has been done to secure the watching of coasts in the interests of our mercantile marine?
Mr. BUXTONWith the concurrence of the Treasury the Board of Trade have decided to erect huts for coast watching purposes, with telephonic communication, at sixty-three places, and to employ, where necessary, suitable men to act as watchers. The necessary steps for completing these arrangements are being taken; and further proposals are being carefully considered. I may add that the General Post Office in co-operation with the Board of Trade have of late carried out many improvements in the coast communication telephone system.