§ Mr. ASHLEYasked the Secretary of State for War if he can state in what way the removal of guns has modernised and strengthened the defences of Gibraltar?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe whole question of the armament of Gibraltar was considered by the Admiralty and War Office on the Report of General Owen's Committee, and the alterations now in course of completion are made with the view of modernising and strengthening the defence. I am not prepared to discuss the details of these changes, which it is manifestly inexpedient to publish.
§ Mr. ASHLEYThe right hon. Gentleman does not deny that the guns have been removed from Gibraltar?
§ Mr. HALDANEOnly for the purpose of putting more appropriate guns in their place. All changes that have been made, and are being made, are with a view to modernising and strengthening the defences.
§ Mr. ASHLEYAre we to understand that these new guns require less garrison gunners to man them?
§ Mr. HALDANEWill the hon. Member put down a question?