§ 21. Captain W. G. HALLasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is in a position to make a statement regarding the action of His Majesty's Ship "Veronica" in connection with the recent earthquake in New Zealand?
Mr. ALEXANDERHis Majesty's Ship "Veronica" arrived at Napier shortly before the earthquake took place. The ship was lying alongside the pier, and although she was somewhat badly stressed by the shock, the commanding officer, Commander H. L. Morgan, landed all available officers and men and rendered all possible assistance in dealing with the situation. The Commodore of the New Zealand Division in His Majesty's Ship "Dunedin" with His Majesty's Ship "Diomede" arrived the following morning, having proceeded from Auckland at full speed. His Majesty's Ship "Veronica" has since been docked. 1230 She has sustained no extensive damage, and should be fit for service by the end of this month.