§ Mr. RENWICKasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in the case of contracts which have recently been placed for the electric light installations and searchlights in British warships now building the contractors for such installations, etc., being British branches of German firms it is made a condition of the contract that only British-made cables, machinery, and fittings shall be used, and only British subjects employed in the superintendence and fitting of same on board the vessels; and whether precautions have been taken to prevent the necessary plans of the ships supplied to the contractors being sent abroad or shown to foreigners.
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)In a contract of the kind referred to in this question, it is made a condition that only British-made cables, machinery and fittings shall be used, and only British subjects employed in the superintendence and fitting of them on board the ships. With regard to the last part of the question, the following provision has been embodied in recent contracts:—"This contract involves an obligation of secrecy within the meaning of Section 2 of the Official Secrets Act, 1889. The contractors shall at their own expense take all such measures and precautions to ensure secrecy in connection with the design, construction, equipment, and completion of the said vessel as may be necessary, including therein all such measures and precautions as may be regarded as necessary by the Commissioners, and the Contractors shall, if so required at 1919 any time by the Commissioners, afford to them such evidence as the Commissioners may consider satisfactory that all such measures and precautions have been, are being, and will be taken."
§ Mr. RENWICKMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if precautions are taken to see that these conditions are strictly carried out?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, Sir. Any information that is brought to my knowledge that the conditions are not strictly carried out, I shall, of course, be very glad to have.