HC Deb 11 April 1940 vol 359 c715
85. Mr. Cassells

asked the Minister of Shipping whether he will give an assurance that the "Queen Elizabeth" is docked in a United States harbour for no purpose other than the safety of the ship and that at no time will she fly other than the British flag?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping (Sir Arthur Salter)

There was more than one reason for sending this vessel across the Atlantic, including the fact that the space she was occupying on the Clyde was wanted for another purpose. But there is not, and never has been, any intention of transferring her to another flag.

Mr. Cassells

While thanking the Minister for his reply, may I ask him to undertake, on behalf of the Government, that no steps will be taken, as far as the future ownership of this ship is concerned, unless this House has in the first instance been fully consulted?

Sir A. Salter

If I went beyond the very definite pledge that I have made, I think I should be answering what is really a hypothetical question.