§ 13. Lord C. BERESFORDasked the exact date on which the Government became aware of the peril to the Empire through insufficient naval forces, as disclosed by the Admiralty Memorandum to the Government of the Dominion of of Canada?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have at present nothing to add to the full statement of Admiralty policy contained in the Memorandum in question.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware that in his speech the Canadian Prime Minister said, "If the conditions which face the Empire at this moment respecting naval defence are grave, based upon the assurances of the Government of the Mother-country and the report of the naval experts of the Admiralty, so as to demand instant and effective action, then I will appeal to Parliament for instant and effective aid, and, if Parliament does not give it me, I will appeal from Parliament to the people," and whether that does not show there is great peril to the Empire?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI cannot attempt to answer questions about speeches delivered by responsible Ministers of the self-governing Dominions. That has nothing to do with the Admiralty. I can answer any questions in regard to Admiralty policy, and the Admiralty policy is fully set forth and explained in the Memorandum, which, if it is read and studied, will be found to put the case exactly as we wish to have it put at the present time.
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether any information was given to the Canadian Prime Minister during his recent visit which has not been disclosed to this House?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLYes, certainly a great deal of confidential information was given.