HC Deb 05 June 1939 vol 348 cc10-1
11. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now make a statement regarding the recently-denounced Anglo-German Naval Treaty?

Mr. Butler

I regret that I am not yet in a position to add anything to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member on 8th May.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Are His Majesty's Government considering negotiating a further naval agreement as suggested by Herr Hitler; and, further, have they yet come to any decision as regards the scrapping of ships of the "Royal Oak" class?

Mr. Butler

I cannot enter into technical and detailed points at this stage, except to say, that as my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister informed the hon. and gallant Member on 8th May, the whole situation created by the denunciation of that agreement is being considered in all its aspects?

Mr. Davidson

Surely the Undersecretary can reply to the question of whether His Majesty's Government are contemplating another treaty?

Mr. Butler

I regret that I cannot add to the answer already given.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether an announcement is to be expected quickly?

Mr. Butler

Certainly the matter is reaching a stage when I think some announcement may be made in the near future.