HC Deb 29 February 1928 vol 214 cc389-90
12. Mr. JOHNSTON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the cruisers "Dunedin" and "Diomede" are still on the strength of the British Navy; and, if so, whether they have recently been sent to Samoa after consultation with the Admiralty?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Bridgeman)

These two vessels are in the New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy, which is under the orders of and maintained by His Majesty's Government in New Zealand. No question of consultation with the Admiralty arose, therefore, in connection with the sending of the vessels to Samoa.

Mr. L'ESTRANGE MALONE

Are the New Zealand Government entitled to conduct warlike operations without consulting the British Government?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The New Zealand Government are entitled to send these vessels to Samoa.

Mr. MALONE

Are not questions of war and peace decided in London?