asked the Minister of Transport when it is expected that the report on the loss of the Royal Mail steamship "Magdalena" will be available; and in what way it is intended to make this document public.

After considering the report of the preliminary inquiry into the loss of the "Magdalena," held by H.B.M. Consul-General at Rio de Janeiro, I have ordered a formal investigation. The evidence taken during the course of the inquiry will be made available to the court of formal investigation, which will sit in public and will make a public report on its findings. The date on which the formal investigation will open will be announced as soon as possible.