HC Deb 11 July 1923 vol 166 cc1327-8
18. Mr. PENNY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Government of the Straits Settlements have made any offer to contribute towards the cost of the proposed naval base at Singapore by purchasing, at the expense of the Colony, the land required for the site or otherwise?

Mr. AMERY

Yes, Sir. I am much pleased to be able to inform the House that my Noble Friend the Secretary of State has received a message from the Governor of the Straits Settlements that, with the concurrence of the unofficial members of the Executive and Legislative Councils of the Colony, the site selected both for the naval base and for the aerodrome will be acquired by the Govern- ment of the Colony and handed over as a free gift. A message has been sent to Sir Laurence Guillemard expressing His Majesty's Government's warm appreciation of this generous and patriotic decision on the part of the Colony.

Mr. PENNY

Could the right hon. Gentleman say what is the extent of the site that has been granted?

Mr. AMERY

I should have to have notice of that question.

Captain BERKELEY

What proportion will the value of this site bear in relation to the total cost of the dock?

Mr. AMERY

At any rate, it is a very generous and welcome gift.

Sir GEORGE BERRY

Do not look a gift horse in the mouth!

Captain BERKELEY

May I have an answer to my question?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. and gallant Member should put it down.