HC Deb 02 July 1895 vol 35 cc122-3

On the Motion for the Third Reading of this Bill,

SIR EDWARD HARLAND (Belfast, N.)

said, he had no desire to delay this Bill, but he wished to press on the Government the great importance, among others, of the works at Gibraltar. Instead of a dock 580 ft. long, they should have one 800 ft. They ought to provide for merchant cruisers 700 ft. in length, and with vessels of this length it would be manifestly absurd to build a dock of only 580 ft. A dock of 800 ft. would enable two battleships to be docked at the same time.

* SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH (Lancashire, N.E. Clitheroe)

said, perhaps before the First Lord of the Admiralty replied he might be allowed to say a few words with regard to the position of this question. Any suggestion which came from the hon. Member, who was a high authority, was entitled to serious consideration. His suggestions were under consideration when the change of Government took place, and what had been done was to leave the matter in such a form that it might be decided either way by the new Board of Admiralty. The length of the dock had been decided upon the advice of Naval experts. The length suggested by the hon. Member was greater than that of any dock being built in England. The exceptionally fine dock now under construction at Southampton was 750 ft. long, and was intended for the largest ships plying between this country and the United States. So far as his experience went, 800 ft. would be an extraordinary length for a dock.

SIR E. HARLAND

said the docks at Tilbury were 875 ft. in length.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. G. J. GOSCHEN,) St. George's, Hanover Square

said, that every possible attention would be given to the matter. It would be presumptuous in him to pass an opinion at the present moment upon a matter requiring very serious consideration; but, inasmuch as the question had been, left open by the right hon. Gentleman opposite, it would be considered with every desire to carry out the very best arrangement poesible. ["Hear, hear!"]

Bill read 3°, and passed.