§ 49. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the First Lord of the Admiralty when, and why, the German fleet was invited to visit Portsmouth; when they will arrive; when will they go; and are the officers or men to be allowed to come to London also?
The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Sir Bolton Eyres Monsell)The first part of the question is based upon a misapprehension. The German fleet has not been invited to visit Portsmouth, and is not doing so. Two German cruisers are paying an informal visit to Portsmouth from 11th to 15th July. For a visit of this kind, under an arrangement agreed with Germany in February, 1932, and following general international practice, an invitation is neither given nor expected. It is merely notified to the country visited. The present visit was notified on 6th June. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIn view of the revelations in the Press this morning, is it not rather foolish to allow these people to come to London and Portsmouth?
§ Commander MARSDENIn view of the fact that association with sailors of any nation is the best way of getting friendly relations with that nation, should not we not only allow these men to come to London but invite them?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLAs I have said, it is not a question of invitation. While this is the first visit of German ships to this country since the War, our ships have paid several visits and have always received the most cordial welcome, and it would be a gross breach of hospitality not to extend to them a similar welcome.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs the swastika flag going to be hoisted on English territory?
§ Mr. THORNEWhat is the object of the German fleet coming into British waters, and is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Germans are building armies and fleets for the purpose of knocking Europe to pieces?