HC Deb 19 February 1934 vol 286 c10
15. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will inquire for what defensive reason the French Government, since 11th November, 1918, has built, or is building, 80 submarines?

Mr. COCKS

On a point of Order. May I ask you, Sir, if there is any precedent for a question of this nature?

Mr. SPEAKER

Does the hon. Member refer to this question?

Mr. COCKS

Are Members allowed to ask questions as to why certain Powers are defending themselves, as they have a perfect right to do?

Mr. SPEAKER

With agreements that are now made on these questions, it is difficult to say whether the Government is responsible or not.

Sir J. SIMON

I hardly think it would be proper for His Majesty's Government to adopt my right hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. LAMBERT

Cannot these submarines in certain eventualities be a formidable menace to the free flow of commerce in the Channel?

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