HC Deb 26 February 1924 vol 170 cc258-9
Captain BENN

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether, as stated in the "Times" to-day, an official intimation has been made to the Portsmouth Dockyards that one of the five new light cruisers is to be laid down there; and whether this is in keeping with his pledge that Parliamentary sanction should be sought before any orders were placed?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Ammon)

No order has been issued or will be issued until Parliamentary sanction has been obtained for the proposals already announced, and there will be no departure from the pledge given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on this subject.

Captain BENN

Then we may take it that this so-called "official intimation" to Portsmouth Dockyard does not exist?

Mr. AMMON

The hon. and gallant Member may take it that the answer which I have given him is the correct one.

Captain BERKELEY

Has there been any official communication with Portsmouth Dockyard?

Mr. AMMON

I think the answer given was sufficient.

Captain BENN

Will you allow me, Mr. Speaker, to ask whether any official inti- mation has been made to Portsmouth Dockyard?

Mr. AMMON

I suggest that no fuller or franker statement could be made.