§ 80. Lord C. BERESFORDasked whether, as regards the placing of guns on merchant vessels, any confidential documents in the way of instructions, particulars of guns, and otherwise, are placed in the hands of the masters or officers of the ships on which these guns are fitted; and, if so, whether it is stipulated that the masters and officers of these vessels must be British subjects, or otherwise what precautions are taken against such confidential documents falling into the hands of alien masters or officers who may be serving on these vessels?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo confidential documents have been placed in the hands of 41 masters or officers of ships defensively armed. The Admiralty issue to them such instructions as they may from time to time consider necessary. The interests of the State are safeguarded by the fact that all captains and officers of the ships so armed are British subjects worthy of the confidence of the Admiralty.