HC Deb 17 May 1922 vol 154 cc333-4
13. Viscount CURZON

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is intended to dispose of Pembroke Dockyard; whether any offers have been received; and what is the total sum provided under the current Estimates for this yard?

Mr. AMERY

The reply to the first two parts of the question is in the negative. The total amount of expenditure at Pembroke provided in the current Estimates is £352,830?

Viscount CURZON

Is it intended to retain the dockyard permanently on the Navy Votes or not?

Mr. AMERY

The reasons for which it has been decided to retain this dockyard are reasons of general national economy rather than Admiralty reasons of economy, and they have been fully stated here.

Dr. MURRAY

Are they not National Liberal economy reasons?

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

In view of the special position of Ireland in regard to this dockyard, will not the hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of not closing the yard from that point of view?