HC Deb 11 May 1936 vol 312 cc26-7
39. Mr. STUART RUSSELL

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether contracts have yet been given for the construction of the two battleships of the 1936 programme; if not, when the allocation of these contracts may be expected?

The CIVIL LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Kenneth Lindsay)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, no definite date can be given at present, but it will be several months before the design drawings can be sufficiently advanced for tendering purposes.

Sir P. HARRIS

What do the Government propose to do with the £425,000 which they have asked the House to vote if there is to be no contract this year?

Mr. LINDSAY

In order to take some preliminary steps which are necessary before battleships are built.

Sir P. HARRIS

Is it suggested that the preliminary steps will cost £425,000?

Mr. LINDSAY

Yes.