§ Mr. J. Lewisasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that all parcels sent to this country by naval personnel stationed in Malta are inspected at the Marine Office; and if he will there fore put a stop to the practice of native Maltese police, searching, interrogating and sometimes arresting naval personnel.
Mr. AlexanderNo, Sir. I am informed that the Government of Malta had reason to believe that imported goods intended for the Maltese were being taken out of the island by Service personnel and others, and that instructions were therefore given to the police to interrogate persons embarking with parcels. I am also informed that some naval personnel were searched, without result, but revised instructions have now been issued by the Commissioner of Police which will, it is hoped, ensure that personnel are not searched or detained unnecessarily.