§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the President of the Board of Trade what is, and what was, the cause of the delay in not holding an inquiry into the loss of the s.s. "El Kahira," last seen about 12 miles west of the Casquets on 7th July, 1922; why the hearing is not to be commenced until September next; and if he is aware that many of the dependants of the officers and crew have been suffering hardship owing to the delay in holding this inquiry?
§ Viscount WOLMERThis was a case of a vessel which disappeared with all hands, and for some time it was doubtful whether any really useful purpose would be served by ordering an inquiry. After it was decided to order an inquiry, further time was required to get together the necessary evidence as to the causes of this casualty. I do not think there is any reason why the delay in the holding of the inquiry should have affected any claims which the dependants of the officers and crew may have.