HC Deb 06 April 1909 vol 3 c919
Mr. GEORGE D. FABER

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the grave and growing anxiety regarding the Navy, he will forthwith institute an inquiry into the working of the Board of Admiralty and Naval Administration, such an inquiry to be conducted by a tribunal appointed by the Government and commanding public confidence?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)

I am not sure that I correctly apprehend the scope or object of the proposed inquiry. I have no statement to make on the subject at present.

Mr. G. D. FABER

Does the right hon. Gentleman remember that there is a precedent for such an inquiry in the Select Committee appointed in 1888 after the resignation of Lord Charles Beresford?

The PRIME MINISTER

No; I have not that fresh in my memory, but I will look it up.