HC Deb 07 April 1937 vol 322 cc169-70
5. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received an official intimation as to whether or not Japan will accept the 14-inch gun limit proposed by the London Naval Treaty, 1936?

Mr. Eden

Yes, Sir. The Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs communicated to His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo on 27th March the reply of the Japanese Government declining to accept the 14-inch gun limitation for future capital ships.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Are there any communications in process between this country and the United States of America arising out of this decision?

Mr. Eden

We have communicated this decision to the other negotiators in respect of the London Treaty.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, arising out of this decision of the Japanese Government, the value of the London Naval Treaty of 1936 is now practically nil?

Mr. Eden

No, Sir, I would not at all assume that.

Mr. A. V. Alexander

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is intended to ask for a revision of the conditions of the London Treaty?

Mr. Eden

No, Sir, that is not the intention at present.

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