Major HARVEY by Private Noticeasked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the statement, since denied by the Admiralty, published in the "Evening Standard" of 20th November to the effect that the cause of the sinking of the submarine M1 was the neglect of the crew to close a hatch, and, if in view of the distress which such a statement causes to the relatives of the deceased men, he will take steps to prevent the publication of such unfounded statements in the future?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMy attention has not previously been called officially to this matter. My hon. and gallant Friend knows that I have no control over the Press, as to what statements they shall or shall not publish.
§ Colonel WOODCOCKIs there any truth in the suggestion that the making of this statement is due to a non-official statement being made by an official of the Admiralty?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThat question ought to be addressed to the Admiralty. The information which I have is that the statement was not issued by the Admiralty.
Major HARVEYAre we to understand that the statement was a pure invention on the part of the newspaper?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSSo far as I am aware, there is no foundation for the statement at all.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the statement issued by the Admiralty this morning? Why has so long a delay occurred before the truth has been ascertained?