§ 27. Major PROCTERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that assignments of interests in the so-called Drake estate are still taking place; whether he can give any further information with regard to the perpetration of frauds based on the supposed existence of an unsettled or unappropriated estate formerly belonging to Sir Francis Drake; and what steps he has taken, or proposes to take, to protect the public from fraudulent misrepresentations in connection therewith?
§ Sir J. GILMOURSo far as His Majesty's Government is aware, there is no such estate in this country. Last year I became aware that an American subject was holding himself out as carrying on a scheme for the recovery of the "Drake estate" and, as I informed the House at the time, I decided to deport him from this country. I am not aware of any other recent operations of this kind in England, but I shall be glad to consider any information bearing on the matter.
§ Major PROCTERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that over £500,000 has been raised from American and English citizens on this the English equivalent of the Spanish swindle and, where the good name of our country is involved, will he do his best to stop this American racket?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI thought I had taken the most effective means.