HC Deb 17 May 1939 vol 347 cc1391-2
39. Sir C. Cayzer

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the unilateral denunciation of the Anglo-German Naval Treaty by the German Government, it is proposed to enlarge the cruiser construction programme already announced for the present year, and to substitute eight-inch guns for six-inch guns in cruisers now building or projected?

Mr. Shakespeare

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which I gave on 4th May to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Chatham (Captain Plugge) and to which I have at present nothing to add.

Sir C. Cayzer

In view of the fact that we have a large number of cruisers under construction which might be modified, would my hon. Friend urge upon the First Lord the desirability of coming to an early decision?

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is the hon. Gentleman now in a position to tell the House whether the denunciation of the treaty by Germany leaves this country a completely free hand in regard to the question of scrapping ships of the "Royal Oak" class?

Mr. Shakespeare

That question must await the considered reply of the Government to the German denunciation.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is it not the case that the Prime Minister has stated that representations have been made to the German Government on this matter? Is it not also the case that the treaty is capable of different interpretations, and that the Admiralty must know what is the position with regard to the "Royal Oak" class following the denunciation of the treaty?

Mr. Shakespeare

That may be so or not, but I think it is not wise to make a partial statement on a large question which the Prime Minister has just stated is being dealt with.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

When may we expect a statement?