§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any work has actually been begun on the new naval base at Singapore; and, if so, to what extent, and at what cost?
§ Mr. AMERYThe hon. and gallant Member, whose previous advocacy of the development of Singapore as a naval base is well known, will be glad to learn that preliminary work has been begun on the site. Communications are being opened up and arrangements have been made for the construction of the water supply and residences and quarters for the staff if workmen. The actual expenditure up to the present has not been great, but liabilities amounting to about £150,000 have been incurred. I may mention that no expense has been incurred in respect of purchase of the land, as by the generosity of the colony this has been provided free of cost to the Admiralty.
§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the new fortification at Singapore is going to be carried out by the Government or by contract; and whether any of the work has already been commenced?
§ Mr. AMERYIt is proposed to carry out the principal works by contract. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Central Hull (Lieut.-Commander Kenworthy).