32. Earl WINTERTONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many instances of slaves being shipped from the African to the Arabian Coasts of the Red Sea were brought to his notice in 1930; and whether, in such cases, any representations were made to the Governments of the country or countries from which the slaves were shipped?
§ Mr. DALTONNo specific instances of slave trading were brought to my right hon. Friend's notice during the past year, and the second part of the question does not, therefore, arise. It is, I fear, quite possible that shipments of slaves from the African to the Arabian Coast still take place; but the activities of His Majesty's sloops, and the measures taken by the French and Italian Governments, have undoubtedly reduced this traffic to comparatively small proportions.
Earl WINTERTONI presume that the hon. Gentleman's Department receives periodical reports from the Admiralty as to any cases that may be noticed?
§ Mr. DALTONOh, yes, we keep in very close touch with the Admiralty.
§ Mr. CAMPBELLDoes not this show one of the many uses of the British Navy?
§ Mr. DALTONYes, Sir; if such a demonstration were necessary, this would afford it.