HC Deb 01 March 1932 vol 262 cc943-4
42. Mr. MANDER

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty for what reasons the cruiser "Berwick" was moved from her station in the neighbourhood of Shanghai at the request of one of the participants in the hostilities?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Lord Stanley)

His Majesty's Ship "Berwick" was at Shanghai and Woosung from 3rd to 23rd February. She sailed on the latter date for Hong Kong, which she is due to leave on 9th March for the United Kingdom to undergo refit in accordance with the programme already arranged for her. No report has been received at the Admiralty that the vessel was requested to shift berth by either of the participants in the present hostilities.

Mr. MANDER

Are we to understand that the British Navy will not be moved about in order to enable the Chinese and Japanese to fight each other more effectively?

Lord STANLEY

The prestige of the Navy is perfectly safe in the hands of the Commander-in-Chief.

Captain HOPE

Would it not be better if the hon. Member did not believe everything he reads in the Press?

Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

May I ask you, Sir, whether you think that any good can be done by putting questions such as this on the Paper, without the hon. Member making sure of the circumstances?