HC Deb 27 April 1885 vol 297 cc812-3
SIR EDWARD J. REED

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether he has examined the recent amended Re-turn which sets forth the cost of Her Majesty's Ships laid down since March 1880; and, if so, whether he is able to confirm the statement made by the Civil Lord of the Admiralty to the House, on Monday last, to the effect that "the Return had been very carefully drawn up, and might be accepted by the House as correct," or whether the alleged cost was, in every case, below the actual cost of the completed ship?

SIR THOMAS BRASSEY

The figures have been examined and found to give correctly the cost of hulk and engines, with fittings. Masts, yards, ringing, and stores, and the incidental and establishment charges are not included. The Return is similar to those formerly given on the Motion of the late Mr. Laird.

MR. CARBUTT

I wish to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether there is any truth in the report which appeared in The Observer of yesterday, that the Government have bought an iron-clad from the Italian Government; and, if so, will he state what are the armaments of that iron-clad?

SIR THOMAS BRASSEY

I cannot reply to the Question of the hon. Member without Notice.

MR. CARBUTT

I beg to give Notice, as the Secretary to the Admiralty does not know whether an iron-clad has been bought, that I shall repeat the Question to-morrow.