§ 12. Sir G. STRICKLANDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether Maltese affairs- are to be dealt with under the Dominions Department of the Colonial Department, or some other department of the office under his administration?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe intention is that Maltese affairs should be dealt with as heretofore by the Colonial Department.
§ 13. Sir G. STRICKLANDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the office of acting lieutenant-governor of Malta has been entrusted to a private secretary in the absence of the titular holder of the office: and whether he is in future prepared in similar cases to take advantage of existing enactments, which contemplate the appointment of the senior 865 military or naval officer to act as the King's representative should the governor be suddenly incapacitated by illness or absence?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI am not aware that any person has been definitely appointed to act as Lieutenant-Governor of Malta. If such an appointment has been made, the person appointed would, by virtue of the Dormant Commission, succeed to the government in the event of the death, incapacity or absence of the Governor. My right hon. Friend will inquire what arrangements have in fact been made.
§ Sir G. STRICKLANDIs it a fact that the Lieutenant-Governor has been here on leave for some time and that a private secretary is acting for him?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThat is, I understand, the case.
§ Sir G. STRICKLANDIf no acting appointment has been made, does it follow that the office is unnecessary?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORENo. I am not sure who has been appointed to act while the Lieutenant-Governor is on leave, but inquiry is being made on that point.