asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether better provision will be made by the Navy for protecting British trade in Chinese waters against piracy?

Since piratical attacks have become frequent a gunboat in reserve at Hong Kong has been placed in full commission and is now performing patrol duties. Four launches, provided by the Hong Kong Government, have also been manned by naval ratings and are regularly escorting convoys. The question of the necessity for additional naval protection is under consideration.