§ 11. Colonel YATEasked whether the Report of Admiral Slade's Committee on the Royal Indian Marine has yet been considered by the Admiralty; and, if so, whether permission will now be given to the Government of India to arm the vessels of the Royal Indian Marine so as to enable these vessels to take their share in police and patrol work in the Persian Gulf and Indian seas and to afford the 734 people of India an opportunity of helping to strengthen the Imperial Naval forces in Indian waters?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSAdmiral Sir Edmond Slade's Committee was appointed by the Government of India, with the approval of the Secretary of State. The Committee's Report has not been officially received or considered by the Secretary of State, and occasion has not yet arisen to consult the Admiralty as to its recommendations.
§ Colonel YATEMay I ask the hon. Gentleman when the occasion will arise and whether anything has been done in this matter?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSIt has not been officially communicated to the Secretary of State or the Government of India.