§ Mr. NORTON-GRIFFITHSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that Germany is sending to South America one of her latest cruisers, and America is also sending ships of the Dreadnought type, he will take steps to safeguard British national and shipbuilding interests by including the latest type of battleship or cruiser in the squadron visiting those waters?
§ Mr. McKENNAIt is understood that the "Von der Tann" is paying a short friendly visit to South American ports in much the same way as our own Fourth Cruiser Squadron did a short time ago, and the "Delaware" has conveyed the body of the late Chilian Minister to Valparaiso as a mark of international courtesy. Due regard will be paid to the safeguarding of British national and shipbuilding interests, but no undertaking can be given as to the particular type of ship that may be sent.
§ Mr. NORTON-GRIFFITHSMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is prepared to receive a deputation representing commercial interests on this matter? There is much feeling throughout the country in regard to it.
§ Mr. McKENNAPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will make private representations to me on the subject. I would rather not reply in answer to a supplementary question.