65. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if any report has been made to the Admiralty as to the use of a system of wireless telephony in the Navy; if such a system has been, or is proposed to be, introduced in the navies of any other European Powers; and if the agreement with the Marconi Company gives the Government the right to use the system without any further royalty payments beyond those already provided for?
§ Dr. MACNAMARASeveral reports on various systems of wireless telephony 1771 have been received, and its development both here and in foreign countries is being closely watched. The Admiralty agreement with the Marconi Company, which related to wireless telegraphy, terminated on 1st April last. The Admiralty can, if necessary, use any wireless telephony patents on agreed terms as provided in the Patent Act of 1907.
Mr. F. HALLIf there is everything that is claimed for this system, would it not be advisable to see if we could not get the monopoly?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe hon. Member had better put a question on the Paper.