HC Deb 15 June 1927 vol 207 cc991-2
15. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty when large scale naval manœuvres were last held; how many have been held since the Armistice; and what is the largest number of capital ships that have carried out tactical exercises at the same time since the end of the War?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am not quite sure what the hon. and gallant Member exactly means by large scale manoœuvres, but if the term means the exercises of two or more fleets in combination, the answer to the first part of the question is, March, 1927; to the second part, four; and to the last part, 15.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that 15 is a sufficient number to represent the units of a modern fleet for tactical purposes?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

We naturally have to have some regard to economy, but we think it is a sufficient number to produce very desirable and satisfactory results.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the sea training of the Fleet has not been cut down to an undesirable extent?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I naturally would like to see more money available for training exercises, but I am obliged, like other Departments, to consider the requirements of economy. We think that the exercises which have taken place are sufficient to keep the Fleet in a state of efficiency.

Mr. THURTLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the majority of Members on this side of the House want to see less money rather than more money spent upon the Navy?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I put another question to the First Lord of the Admiralty?

Mr. SPEAKER

We are getting on very slowly.