§ 4. Mr. HINDSasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if one lieutenant and three seamen belonging to His Majesty's Navy, together with two officers of the British merchant service, have been captured by Moors in Almanza Bay and are held for ransom since 13th May; and, if so, what steps he has taken for their release?
§ Lord ROBERT CECILAccording to my information, Sub-Lieutenant Kent, R.N.R., and three seamen from the armed merchantman "Richard Welford," together with seven seamen from the British merchant steamer "Eburna," are in the hands of the villagers of Ain Deshisha in the Anjera, having been captured on 13th May. His Majesty's Agent at Tangier entered into communication with the tribes immediately after the capture. A ransom was demanded which it is not considered advisable to pay. I can give no further information at the moment as to the steps which will be taken in the future, but meanwhile I am informed that the captives are being well treated and that there is no reason for anxiety as to their safety.