§ 25. Mr. LANSBURYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, with regard to the projected visit of a British squadron to the Baltic during the present summer, he will say how many ships the squadron will consist of and what is the object of their visit; and, in view of the fact that the reported visit of a British squadron to the Baltic has caused great uneasiness among the population of Russia, will he reconsider the question?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe British ships now visiting the Baltic comprise the Second Cruiser Squadron of five ships and the Fifth Destroyer Flotilla of nine ships. The squadron arrived at Helsingfors on the 15th June, and will remain in the Baltic until the 3rd July. It is customary for a British squadron to visit the Baltic during the summer months, and I see no reason why any uneasiness should be caused by the cruise.
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISONCan the House be informed what is the authority of the hon. Gentleman for saying that this visit of the British ships will cause uneasiness in Russia?
§ Mr. LANSBURYAm I allowed to answer that question?
§ Mr. J. JONESSeeing that you will not trade with Russia, why pay them friendly visits?