HC Deb 09 March 1927 vol 203 cc1217-8
29. Mr. AMMON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government that any naval forces and vessels raised and provided by the Governor-General of India in Council should be placed at his disposal to be employed otherwise than upon Indian naval defence?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Bill makes provision for the possibility that the Royal Indian Navy, after being placed at the disposal of His Majesty, may be employed for purposes other than the purely local defence of India. Circumstances may arise in which it may be desirable to take advantage of this provision.

Mr. BECKETT

Will the Indian National Assembly be consulted before these ships are moved?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I think the hon. Member will find that there are ample safeguards in the Bill down for consideration this afternoon.

Mr. BECKETT

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer my question?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question can be debated on the Bill.