asked the Under-Secretary of State for India how many ships at present constitute the fleet of the Royal Indian Marine; how many officers and men are borne on the books; what is the present position of the service; and whether any decision has yet been reached with regard to its future?

The fleet at present consists of 10 vessels, excluding steam trawlers, small steamers and launches. There are 48 executive officers, 32 engineer officers, 57 warrant officers and 1,170 men. No change has taken place in the position of the service, except that the troopships are being disposed of. The future of the service is still under consideration.

The hon. Member says that warships are being disposed of. Are they being disposed of to any private interest, and has any communication taken place with the Admiralty on the subject?

I should like notice of that question.