SINGAPORE BASE

Hokitika Guardian, 23 November 1929, Page 6

SINGAPORE BASE

(United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.)

LONDON, November 22. In the House of Commons, bn the motion for the adjournment, Captain R.. A. Eden (Conservative) raised the question ol' the Singapore base. He complained of the attitude adopted by the Government in arriving at its decision. He said Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and the Straits Settlements had all generously contributed to the cost which construction of the base involved. Yet the Government, without bothering to consult these Dominions or colonies, abruptly decided to change the accepted policy. The fullest information ought to be given to every part of the Empire before any such change was made.

Mr A. Ponsonby, in replying, explained that there was no change of policy, but merely a precautionary measure—a provisional step, in view of the possible eventualities, such as the decision of the Five Power Naval Conference. The Dominions and the colonies were informed, but had not been consulted. At the earliest-pos-sible moment, Mr Ponsonby added, he was undertaking that there would be the fullest consultation. The Government considered the.. Dominions. Jiad every right to the closest consultation, now that thev had achieved full nationhood. The Government did not regard, this matter as a reason for consultation, but there would be the . fullest consultation if the eventualities .should prove that it was necessary to make make any change in policy. Mr Amery said the reply involved the' conduct of the Government in a complete fog. Obviously there must be fuller discussion later. The House then rose.