§ 17. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWNasked the First Lord of the Admiralty why the projected cruise of the East Indian squadron down the coast of East Africa has been postponed; and whether any other arrangements have been made to show the British flag to our traders on the East African coast?
Mr. ALEXANDERI have no information as to any postponement of the cruise on the East African coast. It is anticipated that His Majesty's Ship "Effingham" and His Majesty's Ship "Enterprise" will leave Aden for the cruise about the 1st of May.
Brigadier-General BROWNWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question, whether any other arrangements have been made to show the British flag to our traders on the East African coast?
Mr. ALEXANDERI think the answer to the first part of the question makes an answer to the second part unnecessary.
Brigadier-General BROWNBut does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this is not only protection for our ships but for our trade as well? It is very important to show our flag if we are to keep our markets against the competition of the Germans and Americans.
Mr. ALEXANDERThe Government have already taken note of that, and the hon. and gallant Member may be confident that we shall do all in our power to do what he desires.
§ Mr. HAYCOCKMay I ask what connection there is between cruisers, implements of death, and trade?