HC Deb 11 November 1912 vol 43 cc1727-8
62. Mr. YERBURGH

asked whether at the present moment two large armoured ships are in process of construction at Newcastle and Barrow, respectively, for the Turkish Government; and whether, in the event of an opportunity arising for the purchase of these ships, His Majesty's Government, in view of its expressed determination to maintain our position in the Mediterranean, both on land and sea, to as full an extent as it has ever done in the past without dependence on any alliance or understanding, actual or implied, but with own forces, intend to secure them as an addition to the Baltic Fleet of this country?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Churchill)

One ship is under construction at Barrow and the other is reported to have been ordered provisionally from Elswick, but, so far as I am aware, has not been laid down. On the general question of naval strength I can only refer the hon. Member to the full statements I made to the House in March and July last.

Mr. YERBURGH

Is it not the fact that in the early part of the year it was the intention of the Government to withdraw our battleships from the Mediterranean, and whether a programme of further construction was not based on the policy then put forward?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The whole of these matters were very fully discussed in April of this year, and I cannot attempt to enter upon them at Question Time.

Colonel YATE

In view of the expressed determination of the Government to maintain our position in the Mediterranean will the right hon. Gentleman take immediate steps to provide a fresh Fleet to take the place of the ships sent to the Mediterranean?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I cannot attempt to discuss these matters at Question Time. I am quite ready at the proper time to go into them fully and at length. They are very important matters, and it would be ridiculous to attempt to discuss them by means of question and answer across the floor of the House.

Mr. YERBURGH

Will we have an opportunity of discussing the subject at an early date?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The House will have the regular opportunities of Parliamentary discussion provided by Parliamentary procedure.