HC Deb 23 July 1924 vol 176 cc1297-9
23. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why tenders have been accepted allowing for the completion of the five additional cruisers in three years instead of having them built in a shorter time, in view of the Admiralty's statement that these vessels are urgently required?

Mr. AMMON

Three years is the usual and reasonable period to build ships of this size and type in peace time. The period can be somewhat shortened in war time or other emergency, but only at enhanced cost.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the Department taking any steps to bring forward the work on these cruisers in order to try to ease the situation with regard to unemployment in the district?

Mr. AMMON

Yes, that is being done.

24. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether there is any Clause in the contracts for the additional five new cruisers allowing for the cancellation of the contracts in the event of a further agreement being reached with the principal naval Powers, limiting the construction of those types of warships which are excluded from the last Washington Agreement; and, if so, what is the nature of the Clause?

Mr. AMMON

The contracts for the new cruisers do not contain a cancellation Clause.

Mr. J. HARRIS

Does not the hon. Gentleman contemplate taking any action with regard to another Naval Conference for the limiting of ships outside the Washington Convention?

Mr. AMMON

Oh, yes. At the Conference other questions will be considered as and when they arise.

Captain BENN

In the event of restriction being agreed upon, have the Government committed themselves to going on with this programme in any case?

Major Sir BERTRAM FALLE

Would not such a proviso in the contract largely increase the price of the cruisers?

Mr. AMMON

That is the reason. It would increase the price, and it is an unbusinesslike arrangement.

Captain BENN

Are the Government bound to go on building these ships whether there is a general disarmament agreement or not?

Mr. THURTLE

Is it not customary in such cases for such a Clause to be inserted in the contract?

Mr. AMMON

No, it is not customary, and it is bad business. It would create great unsettlement and would considerably enhance prices. In answer to the hon. and gallant Gentleman, he forgets that it is not an increase of armaments but simply replacement.

Captain BENN

Will the hon. Gentleman be so kind as to give a specific reply to my question—are the Government bound to go on building these ships whether disarmament is agreed upon or not?

Mr. AMMON

That, of course, will be considered when disarmament is agreed upon.