HC Deb 22 April 1864 vol 174 cc1502-3
MR. BERNAL OSBORNE

said, he would beg to ask the noble Lord, Whether Her Majesty's Government intend to proceed with the Spithead Forts according to the original plans; or whether they have not altogether abandoned the idea of a fort on the Horseshoe Sands?

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

said, he rather thought they had abandoned the Sturbridge Fort.

MR. BERNAL OSBORNE

The Sturbridge and Horseshoe Forts?

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

No, not both; only that of Sturbridge, in consequence of the foundations being bad.

MR. BERNAL OSBORNE

Then you do not intend to continue the plan?

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

No, certainly not, when we cannot get good foundations. The Sturbridge Port will not be proceeded with.