asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if his attention has been called to the arrival of the Italian. warships "Panther," "Lion," and "Tiger," at Leningrad, and the banquets, concerts, and other festivities given in their honour by the population; if he is aware that these Italian warships are a modern type; and whether he will consider the advisability of sending representative British warships to show the flag in Russian waters at an early date?

I am aware of the visit of the Italian warships, which are flotilla leaders of modern type. As regards the latter part of the question, it is not at present proposed to send British warships to Russian waters.

Is it not one of the important functions of the British Navy to show the flag, and in view of the long period of years that have elapsed since a visit to this port, may the matter be considered?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the British Navy has not yet forgotten the foul murder of Captain Cromie in Petrograd?