§ 7. Dr. CHAPPLEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the 1086 dissatisfaction in the New Hebrides over the working of the condominium, he has been urged to station a British man-of-war in the group throughout the year; and whether he has any intention of considering such a proposal favourably?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIt is hoped that it will be possible for British men-of-war to spend a considerable time in the New Hebrides this season. One is on her way there at this moment.
§ 15. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to a petition presented to the French Resident in the New Hebrides, purporting to be signed by British subjects, requesting that the Archipelago may be brought under the French flag; and whether information has reached him, either directly or through the Admiralty, showing that several of the signatories were of doubtful nationality and that most of them had been charged with grave irregularities towards the natives?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Harcourt)My attention has been drawn to the petition in question, and I have received information with regard to certain of the signatories which prevents my attaching undue weight to their representations.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSIs not what is in the question practically accurate?
§ Mr. HARCOURTI would sooner that the hon. Member did not take more than I have said.