§ MR. BELLAIRS (Lynn Regis)I beg-to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that the American Navy Department has reported to Congress that it is necessary to increase the original programme of battleships from two to four; and whether any change in the British programme for 1907–8 is contemplated.
§ MR. CHIOZZA MONEY (Paddington, N.)asked the hon. Gentleman whether, in the interests of the continuance of the friendly relations existing between the United States and this country, he would repudiate the suggestion that an increase in the American Navy was a reason for an increase in our Navy.
§ MR. LAMBERTThat is a Question as to policy which I would rather not answer. In answer to the first part of the Question, the Admiralty have no information apart from a statement in the Press. In answer to the second, the Estimates for next year are now tinder consideration.