Brazilian Centenary Of Independence

15.

Captain Viscount CURZON
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what Powers have so far decided to send ships or squadrons to represent them at Rio de Janeiro; and if he can give the names of the ships which will be present?

19.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY
asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what British vessels of war are stationed on the East coast of South America; and what will be the nearest British warships to Rio de Janeiro when the exhibition is being held?

Mr. AMERY
As regards the first question, I understand that it is the intention for the following men-of-war to be present at the Brazilian Centenary of Independence at Rio de Janeiro: United States of America—3 dreadnought battleships.Japan—3 old armoured cruisers.Argentina—1 dreadnought battleship.Chile—1 dreadnought battleship. Portugal—1 sloop. With my Noble and gallant Friend's permission, I will circulate the names of the ships in the OFFICIAL REPORT. It is also probable that France and Italy will send ships, but nothing is yet definitely decided. As regards the second question, none of His Majesty's ships are stationed on the East coast of South America. The nearest British men-of-war to Rio de Janeiro will be those attached to the North America and West Indies station.

Viscount CURZON
Does the effect of that answer amount to this, that the only great maritime Power unrepresented at Rio will be this country, as at present arranged?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY
May I ask why it is that the British Navy, which had so much to do with the freeing of the South American Republics, is going to be the only big Navy unrepresented at this great national festival?

Lieut.-Col. Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS
Will the right hon. Gentleman most seriously consider this question, as it is a matter of great importance to this country that it should be represented at the Rio de Janeiro Centenary Exhibition?

Colonel WEDGWOOD
Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire what it would cost to send out battleships?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY
Why is it that our Navy is not to be represented at the centenary of the birth of Republics, but is only engaged in trying to suppress them?

The names of the ships detailed to be present at the Centenary are as follow: United states of America—Maryland, Nevada, Arkansas or Utah.Japan—Idzumo, Iwate, Asama.Argentina—Morena or Rivadarvia.Chile—Almirante Latorre (late Canada).Portugal—Republica or Carvalho Aranjo.