HC Deb 19 November 1930 vol 245 cc406-7
2. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any further steps have been taken in relation to the outstanding differences left by the London Naval Treaty?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

Certain conversations have recently taken place, but I am not in a position at present to make any statement on the subject.

Sir K. WOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication when he will be able to make a. statement?

Mr. HENDERSON

I am afraid not. These conferences began as long ago as last May and were reopened in September. They have recently been reopened again. How long they will continue or what progress will be made I am not at the moment in a position to say.

15. Major ROSS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has any information as to the intentions of the French Government with regard to its availing itself of the replacement tonnage of capital ships permissible under the Washington Agreement?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. A. V. Alexander)

The answer is in the negative.

Major ROSS

Has the First Lord's attention been called to notices which have appeared in the Press in connection with this matter?

Mr. ALEXANDER

I am aware of what has appeared in the Press,

17. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTANDOYLE

asked the First lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware of any naval construction now being undertaken by foreign Powers which will place Great Britain at a disadvantage on the expiry of the Washington and London Naval Treaties; and what steps he proposes to take to protect British interests?

Mr. ALEXANDER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The second part of the question, therefore, does not arise.

Mr. SMITHERS

Does that mean in the opinion of the Sea Lords also?

Mr. ALEXANDER

It means exactly what I have said.

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