HC Deb 11 July 1938 vol 338 cc920-1
64. Mr. Emmott

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the decision of His Majesty's Government not to lay down any destroyers this year is subject to early revision?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (Mr. Shakespeare)

His Majesty's Government reached this decision after a careful review of existing requirements. Provided no important new consideration arises, there is no necessity for it to be reviewed.

Mr. Emmott

Are His Majesty's Government satisfied that to abstain from laying down destroyers this year will not prejudice the maintenance of the proper balance between the different categories of ships?

Mr. Shakespeare

Yes, that is, of course, one of the factors that has influenced the position. We have in recent years maintained a steady production of destroyers, but in this year's programme we are concentrating on the less advanced categories of battleships, aircraft carriers and cruisers which, incidentally, take much longer to build.

Mr. Donner

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the large number of submarines which are being built in many foreign countries at the present time?

Mr. Shakespeare

Yes, Sir.