Mr. Alexander(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia are considering the acquisition of any cruisers from this country?
§ The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Colonel Llewellin)Yes, Sir; I understand that the Commonwealth Government are considering the acquisition of two cruisers of the modified "Leander" class. Steps will be taken to keep the House informed of any developments.
§ Mr. BellengerMay I ask the hon. and gallant Gentleman whether, in that case, there will be any alteration in our own naval programme to replace these cruisers?
§ Colonel LlewellinI think the hon. Member had better wait for further in- 1384 formation. It may be that the arrangements will be made in time to incorporate some of the financial provisions made in the Supplementary Estimates, but I cannot make certain of that at the present moment.