§ 34. Mr. WALLHEAD (for Mr. McGOVERN)asked the First Lord of the Admiralty under what circumstances ex-King Alfonso recently took the salute at a parade of the cadets at Dartmouth Naval College?
§ Captain McEWENOn a point of Order. Is it correct, and in accordance with the traditions of this House, to refer to a sovereign who has not abdicated as an ex-King?
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe decided last Session that that is a suitable title.
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Lord Stanley)During his recent visit to the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, as a parent of one of the cadets, King Alfonso did not take the salute at a parade of the cadets, and the question therefore does not arise.
§ Mr. HANNONMay I ask you, Sir, whether questions of this kind, which are so offensive, should be put? Last year the question was raised, and you kindly considered it, and there was a sort of understanding in this House that offensive references to ex-Kings or foreign potentates should not be made.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the hon. Member aware that not only was King Alfonso there, but that it was broadcast through all the picture-houses in this country? Is this an appropriate thing, having regard to the friendly relations which exist between this country and the Spanish Government?
Lord STANLEYKing Alfonso went to Dartmouth to see his son there, a natural 215 thing to do. The question asked is whether he took the salute. He was there as a member of the house party, and was merely standing near the saluting base. He did not take the salute, and therefore the question does not arise.
§ Mr. MAXTONThe film must have lied about it.
§ Mr. LAWSONIs the Noble Lord aware that the film which I saw myself stated that he took the salute?