§ 1. Sir J. D. REESasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what was the total cost of suppressing the arms traffic in the Persian Gulf in 1912–13; what contribution was made by India; and what proportion £64,000, estimated as the Indian contribution in 1913–14, bears to the total cost estimated for the latter year?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY for INDIA (Mr. Montagu)The whole of the cost of suppressing the arms traffic in the Persian Gulf has been borne by Indian revenues. The total cost in 1912–13, as far as is at present known, was £131,115. The estimate for 1913–14 is £166,700.
§ Sir J. D. REESDo the Government anticipate similar expensive measures will be necessary in the current year?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Estimates have been framed accordingly, but it is impossible to say how long it may be necessary to go on with the present arrangements.