§ LORD EUSTACE CECILasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty, If he could state how many 18 and 43-ton guns of the new pattern breechloader have been applied for by the Admiralty to re-arm the Navy; and, how many such guns have been already delivered by the War Office, or by contract?
§ SIR THOMAS BRASSEYTwenty-two 18-ton guns have been taken in the Estimates. Three have been delivered to the Navy for experimental purposes. Fifteen are ready at Woolwich, except that the sighting is not complete, pending a decision as to the brand of powder to be used. The remaining four are incomplete, but will be ready in time for the Impérieuse, for which ship they are intended. Of the 43-ton guns, 15 were taken in the Estimates. Ten have been actually delivered. Four are being proceeded with for the Collingwood, and will be ready in time. The remaining gun is a spare gun, and is well advanced.