HC Deb 18 February 1937 vol 320 cc1355-6
49. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make with reference to the proposals of the Government to be laid before the Imperial Conference respecting a greater share in the cost of Imperial Defence being borne by the Dominions?

The Prime Minister

While welcoming the opportunity afforded by the Imperial Conference for the discussion of defence and other common problems, I would remind the hon. Member that the defence expenditure of the Dominions is entirely a matter for His Majesty's Governments in the respective Dominions.

Mr. Mander

Did not the Prime Minister see the speech of the First Lord of the Admiralty on this subject, which created widespread comment throughout the Empire, and will he not give us some information on this subject?

The Prime Minister

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.

Mr. Mander

Can the Prime Minister say whether the First Lord of the Admiralty was speaking on behalf of the Government on that occasion?