HC Deb 28 November 1912 vol 44 c1458
5. Mr. FELL

asked if any British men-of-war are still kept at Constantinople; and if there are any others at any other Turkish seaports for the protection of the Christians?

Sir E. GREY

In answer to the first question, there are two of His Majesty's ships, the "Hampshire" and the "Weymouth," now at Constantinople, and another of His Majesty's ships is at Besika Bay; in answer to the second question there is one of His Majesty's ships at Salonica, and one at Smyrna, and three of His Majesty's ships are off the Syrian coast. His Majesty's ships would, of course, be used if necessary, for the protection of all British subjects.