asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that advertisements are appearing in the Press stating that the latest editions of charts, plans, and sailing directions may be obtained by writing to Admiralty agents by appointment; and, if so, whether he will consider the desirability of preventing the issue of such advertisements at the present time?

The Admiralty charts and sailing directions are used by all mariners, and it is desirable in the interests of safe navigation that the latest editions should be used. There is, therefore, no objection to the advertisement of the same. Information which it is desirable should not be published is, of course, omitted from the published charts and communicated to His Majesty's ships only. Steps are also taken to secure as far as possible the supply of charts to foreigners for legitimate purposes of navigation only, all exports of the same being carefully reviewed.