§ COLONEL LOCKWOOD (Essex, Epping)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty, with respect to H.M.S. Latona, if it is a fact that 43 of the complement are practically obliged to sleep on the upper deck for want of more adequate accommodation; whether this was originally laid down in the design; and if this is the case generally as regards the second class cruisers?
THE SECRETARY TO THE ADMIRALTY (Sir U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH,) Lancashire, ClitheroeNo report has been received of any necessity for 43 men to sleep on the upper deck of the Latona. The Latona and the 20 other vessels of the Apollo class, which are similar in accommodation, were not designed with any intention that part of the complement were to sleep on the upper deck.
§ COLONEL LOCKWOODCan the right hon. Gentleman state as a fact that there is sufficient accommodation for the men, without requiring them to sleep on the upper deck?
SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTHThe complement of the ship has been somewhat increased, and no doubt she may be somewhat crowded, but considering that all the men have not to sleep at the same time, probably there will be found to be sufficient accommodation.
§ MR. TOMLINSON (Preston)Is this a temporary increase, or will the ship be always crowded?
§ COLONEL LOCKWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries?