§ 21. Major ROSSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he intends to make any special provision for ranks and ratings discharged into civil life as a result of the Naval Treaty?
Mr. ALEXANDERNo ratings will be discharged as a result of the Naval Treaty. Reductions will be effected by limiting entries. The method of effecting any small reduction in officers who cannot be absorbed is under consideration.
§ Sir B. FALLEWill any man be prevented from continuing for a pension?
§ we are on perfectly friendly relations with Italy, and we do not want to have a matter raised in this House which would make the position appear to be otherwise.
§ 22. Major ROSSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty the number of destroyers and submarines building or projected by the British Empire and Italy, respectively?
§ Major ROSSIs not the balance going further in favour of Italy as against this country as a result of this Conference?
Mr. ALEXANDERWe debated that point at great length on two previous days, and I pointed out that we are safeguarded in the future by the actual wording of the Treaty.
§ Major ROSSDoes the right hon. Gentleman suppose that he will have to avail himself of Clause 21 of the Treaty fairly soon?
§ Following is the reply: