HC Deb 09 April 1935 vol 300 cc974-5
46. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the increasing air armaments on the Continent, he will appoint a commission, apart from the Committee of Imperial Defence, to investigate the vulnerability of the naval and military establishments in the south-eastern, and southern areas, and advise as to the necessity of their removal to situations less exposed to possible aerial attack?

The PRIME MINISTER

As I informed my right hon. Friend in answer to a question on 25th March, the whole question of the vulnerability of important establishments is under active consideration, and I do not, therefore, think that the suggested Commission would serve any useful purpose.

Mr. LAMBERT

May I press this matter upon the Government? Are the Government aware of the vital importance to the defence of this country of the naval and military establishments being efficient, when Europe is swarming with aircraft?

The PRIME MINISTER

The whole question of the vulnerability of these places is under the active consideration of the Government.

Mr. LAMBERT

Will the right hon. Gentleman not give us any idea when a decision will be arrived at?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, but, if my right hon. Friend will put that specific question to me, I will try to answer it. He must be aware that the matter is not one which can be lightly decided. For one thing, these settlements have established around themselves a very important and beneficial social life, built up from all sorts of organisations, and it is not merely an arsenal or a dockyard which has to be moved but a whole social community.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is the welfare of these establishments to come before the defence of the country?

The PRIME MINISTER

No.