§ 24. Mr. Prittasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what developments have recently been carried out at the Japanese naval base of Yokosuka; whether these developments have had the consent of His Majesty's Government and of the Far Eastern Commission; and how they are consistent with the policy of disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)The former Japanese naval base at Yokosuka has been used since the beginning of the occupation by the naval forces operating in support of the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers in Japan. I am informed that there is no truth in reports that Yokosuka has been converted into a modern naval base, and that such limited modifications as have been made there have been solely for the purpose of maintaining the efficiency of the United States naval vessels and for servicing visiting ships. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are fully satisfied that there has been no breach of the existing policies regarding the disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan and no special instructions have been issued to our representative on the Far Eastern Commission.
§ Mr. PrittCould the Minister reply a little more specifically to the Question —what developments have taken place? It is obvious that some developments have taken place.
§ Mr. MayhewThere are minor and limited modifications being carried out to make the port efficient for the purposes I have mentioned. If the hon. and learned Member wishes, I will send him some further information.