asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, with regard to the proposal no longer to supply anti-piracy guards for service in British merchant ships in Chinese waters open to piratical attack, he will state the reason for this proposal?

After long and careful consideration of all the relevant factors the late Government in March, 1929, decided to withdraw as from the 1st April, 1930, the guards provided by His Majesty's Forces as there were other more appropriate measures open to the shipping companies for exercising effective control over the passengers by whom the piracies are committed. The date for giving effect to this decision is at present being further considered in the light of proposals which have been made by the shipping companies concerned.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the China Coast Association of British Officers have protested against the withdrawal of these guards, and will he reconsider this matter?

I have already indicated that that point is under consideration, but I would add that the notice which was given by the late Government as far back as March, 1929, did give a pretty adequate opportunity for these companies to make other arrangements.

Does not the retention of a number of cruisers help to stop the piracy in these waters and therefore makes it all the more advisable that there should be these guards?

I think that the hon. and gallant Gentleman had better make himself more acquainted with the conditions.

What are the adequate measures that the right hon. Gentleman thinks are considered possible for the merchant shipping companies to take?

It is impossible to go into details like that this afternoon. They have been discussed at great length by the shipping companies, who are fully in touch with the Government on the matter.