HC Deb 26 March 1952 vol 498 c393
23. Captain Robert Ryder

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what steps he is taking to suppress piracy in the Far East.

The Parliamentary and Financial Secretary to the Admiralty (Commander Allan Noble)

Her Majesty's ships in the area concerned have instructions to protect merchant ships, and all practical steps to this end are taken in respect of piracy in accordance with Q.R. & A.I. Article 957.

Captain Ryder

Can my hon. and gallant Friend say whether there has been any increase in piracy in recent months?

Commander Noble

Yes, there has been some increase in piracy in the last few months, but although the war in Korea has strained our naval Forces in the Far East to the limit, we are doing everything we can to protect shipping.

Mrs. Jean Mann

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman do anything to prevent piracy at home, namely, in respect of the food subsidies?