§ MR. DONALDSON-HUDSONasked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether the statement in the "Observer" of May 14th, that the vessels of the Channel Squadron are under repair at the various dockyards is correct; and, if so, whether there are no ships of the Channel Squadron at the present time available for service?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI am happy to say that there is no truth in the statement referred to by the hon. Member. The four ships forming the Channel Squadron are in all respects ready for sea. They are at Portland for the purpose of drill and exercise. The Sultan will be added to the Fleet in a few days.