Captain CRAIG (for Mr. Lonsdale)asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the consideration now being given in the Colonies to the subject of the naval defence of the Empire, he will consider the desirability of calling an Imperial Conference before the year 1911 to discuss this urgent question?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI do not understand that any desire has as yet been expressed by the Colonial Governments for a special conference on the naval defence of the Empire. If any such wish were expressed on the part of the self-governing Dominions, His Majesty's Government would give it their immediate and respectful consideration. As the hon. Member is, no doubt, aware, the first Resolution adopted at the last Imperial Conference provides for subsidiary conferences being held.
§ Mr. C. C. CRAIGMay I ask whether the Government will take the initiative in this matter for once?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir. This is a matter which, if it is brought to an issue at all, must be brought to an issue by a general agreement between His Majesty's Government and the Colonial Governments.