HC Deb 25 June 1930 vol 240 cc1122-3
20. Major ROSS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty the strength of the British Empire and Italy, respectively, in destroyers and submarines in the Mediterranean?

Mr. ALEXANDER

The numbers of destroyers and submarines in the Mediterranean are:—

— Destroyers (including Flotilla Leaders). Submarines.
Great Britain … 40 6
Italy … 81 44

Major ROSS

If we are to obtain parity in that sea with that Power, will it not be necessary to concentrate our entire destroyer and submarine forces?

Mr. ALEXANDER

That matter can better be raised in debate, because obviously it is a matter of opinion. The hon. and gallant Member in putting questions like that, must remember that

— Building. Projected.
Destroyers (including Flotilla Leaders). Submarines. Destroyers (including Flotilla Leaders). Submarines.
British Commonwealth of Nations 14 10 3 1
Italy 9 13 6 22
The above figures do not include any programme for 1930.