§ 28. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for War what new land defences will be necessary for the protection of the proposed 2048 Singapore base; what will be their cost; and when it is proposed to commence work on these defences?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe question of the defences required for the protection of the Singapore Base is still under consideration by the Committee of Imperial Defence. It is not possible to make any statement at present regarding their cost or the date of commencing work upon them.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay we take it, however, that the present position, with only one battery of artillery, is quite inadequate, and that there will have to be increases?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI am afraid the hon. and gallant Gentleman must wait. I cannot give information on the point at the moment.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYAm I in order in asking the right hon. Gentleman, are the present defences sufficient, or will they have to be increased?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIt will depend upon the report finally of the Committee of Imperial Defence.
§ Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWNWould the right hon. Gentleman consider approaching Australia and New Zealand on the matter?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThat really does not arise out of this question.