HC Deb 11 February 1948 vol 447 cc352-3
10. Captain Marsden

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the necessity for the Members of this House having exact and detailed knowledge of the strength of His Majesty's Fleet before voting money for its manning, armament, training and upkeep, he will make known these details to the House before the forthcoming Naval Estimates are presented.

Mr. Dugdale

I regret I cannot anticipate the presentation of the Navy Estimates, which will be published well in advance of the Debate and which, with the covering statement by my noble Friend, will contain as much information as is consistent with security considerations.

Captain Marsden

Is not that just another evasive answer, and does not the Financial Secretary realise that, in this and in many other respects, the people of the country want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? When will he give it?

Mr. Dugdale

No, Sir. It is certainly not an evasion. It is most unusual to publish a statement of this character prior to the publication of the Navy Estimates. As I have stated, they will be published in due course together with a statement by my noble Friend.

Captain Marsden

In view of that most unsatisfactory statement, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment as soon as possible.