ITALIAN NAVAL PROGRAMME.

HC Deb 07 May 1930 vol 238 cc947-8

24. Sir K. WOOD

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can make any statement to the House concerning the new Italian naval programme?

26. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the new naval programme just issued by the Italian Government for the building of 29 new warships; whether intimation of this was given at the recent Naval Conference; and what will be its effect on the British naval programme?

Mr. ALEXANDER

The Admiralty are aware of the proposed Italian naval programme. It is usual for that country's naval requirements to be considered annually in the spring when the naval estimates are under review, so that there is nothing unusual in the announcement of a programme at this time. Intimation of this programme was not specifically given at the London Naval Conference. Our own naval programme is under consideration, and I am not yet in a position to say what that will be.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does the right hon. Gentleman accept the premise that our programme has nothing to do with the Italian programme?

Mr. ALEXANDER

Necessary provision for the naval defence of this country must always be relative as well as absolute. My hon. and gallant Friend is aware that in the provisions of the Treaty now in draft for ratification by the Powers concerned there is laid down what we may call a safety clause.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Did not the right hon. Gentleman lay down absolute conditions in regard to cruisers?