§ SIR JOHN COMMERELL (Southampton)asked the Secretary to the Admiralty, If their Lordships will take into consideration the advisability of appointing a Committee of Naval Experts to report how far it is prudent to heavily square-rig the Impérieuse and Warspite, these vessels being propelled by double screws, and especially liable to accidents in action, from the fall of spars and rigging, and how far the use of masts and yards is advantageous; and, whether their weight might be more beneficially utilised in increasing the coal supply?
§ THE SECRETARY (Mr. HIBBERT) (Oldham)It is not considered necessary to appoint a Committee to inquire into the question of the rig of the Impérieuse and Warspite; but I may add that the subject is at present under the consideration of the Board of Admiralty.