asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many days Marine F. C. Pickett, stationed in Malta, has been under arrest; and when it is likely that inquiries into this case will end.

Marine Pickett has not been under arrest. As the hon. Member is aware, from the letter I wrote to him, this case is in the hands of the civil authorities. They have been asked to hasten proceedings, but I am unable to say when their inquiries will be completed.