HC Deb 28 November 1928 vol 223 cc406-7
22. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can make a statement regarding the reported visit of Devonport dockyard officials to Valparaiso with a view to the Admiralty tendering for the refit of the Chilean battleship "Almirante Latorre"?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

The Chilean Government have been consulting with the Admiralty as regards the refit of the "Almirante Latorre." Some dockyard officials have been sent out to Valparaiso to report on the vessel. The Admiralty have not yet heard the result of this inspection. The cost of sending dockyard officials to Valparaiso is being borne by the Chilean Government.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman undertake that this policy of trying to get work for the dockyards from foreign Governments wherever possible will be continued?

Viscountess ASTOR

Will the Parliamentary Secretary ask the hon. Gentle- man who has put this question to let it be known in his constituency that this is the Government's policy and that they have done so much?

Mr. SAKLATVALA

Do we seriously understand that it is the Government's policy to keep in good order other nations' battleships?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

May I have an answer to my supplementary question?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

It, goes without saying that the Government are always anxious to obtain work for British workmen.