§ 47. Mr. THURTLEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that the decision against he Channel tunnel scheme, announced in 1924, was based partly on memoranda prepared by the general staffs of the three Services in 1920 and partly on a statement made by Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman in 1907; if he is aware that since this decision diplomatic developments and treaty engagements have greatly changed this military aspect of this question, which 631 was the decisive factor in the adverse decision; and if, in these circumstances, he would be prepared to provide Members of the House with an opportunity of recording their views on the desirability or otherwise of further consideration being given to this project?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe memoranda prepared for the inquiry of 1924 brought up to date the information on every aspect of the question and included a special Report by the Chiefs of Staff Committee. I do not think the time has come to reopen the question, nor am I prepared at present to find time to discuss it.
§ Mr. THURTLEWill the right hon. Gentleman keep an open mind as to the possibility of reopening this question after the American Peace Pact has been concluded?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENWill the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that a Commission sat in 1878, I think, and reported favourably on making the Crinan Ship Canal?