HC Deb 29 July 1909 vol 8 cc1358-9
Mr. COBBOLD

asked how many vessels of the Royal Navy have been permanently stationed in Harwich Harbour during the first six months of the present year, and how many have been in and out of the harbour during the same period?

Mr. McKENNA

The "Ganges" is the only vessel permanently stationed in Harwich Harbour. During the first half of the year, 80 vessels, excluding submarines, have been in and out.

Mr. COBBOLD

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, having regard to the constant use of Harwich Harbour made by vessels of the Royal Navy, and especially to the grounding of H.M.S. "Blenheim" at the entrance to the harbour on the morning of Saturday, 24th July, he will include in next year's Estimates a substantial grant towards deepening and widening the approaches to the harbour, which are at present kept open and improved mainly by port dues levied on merchant vessels, while no contribution whatever is made from the National Exchequer in respect of vessels of the Royal Navy?

Mr. McKENNA

The grounding of H.M.S. "Blenheim" was not due to any insufficiency of depth or width of channel. The present depths are sufficient for the requirements of His Majesty's ships visiting the harbour. The dredging is being carried out entirely in the interests of the mercantile marine. It is not of sufficient practical benefit to His Majesty's ships to place any obligation on the Admiralty to contribute towards the cost.

Mr. LEVY LEVER

Is it not the fact that special moorings have to be laid down, and that a demand has been made in the last year or so for new ones, which have been granted, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Army is exempt from rates and taxes, and yet they make a grant in aid for buildings ashore?

Mr. McKENNA

In answer to the latter part of the question I believe the Army follows the same practice as the Navy in regard to buildings ashore. With regard to the first part of the question, I do not understand my hon. Friend to imply that the cost of the moorings is paid by the local authority, but by the Admiralty.