§ 3. Commander BELLAIRSasked, in view of the numerous old cruisers we possess and the Far East being out of the war zone, whether there is any reason for the Royal Indian Marine transports "Dufferin," "Hardinge," "Northbrook," and "Dalhousie" being used as inefficient war vessels instead of carrying troops; whether he is aware that fine large British- India boats are doing this transport work in the Indian Ocean when, by reason of their speed, they are most suitable for the war zone; and whether he will take steps to release the Royal Indian Marine trans port vessels for transport duties?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)The possibility of releasing the Royal Indian Marine ships referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend from their present service was fully considered in 1917, but it was decided by the Board that this could not be done. I may mention that the "Hardinge" does in fact carry out a good deal of trooping work in addition to her other duties.
§ Commander BELLAIRSWill the new Board reconsider the matter?
Captain G. A. LLOYDCan the right hon. Gentleman state to the House the very fine war services which the "Hardinge" and the other steamers referred to have done in the Red Sea?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI will put the point.