HC Deb 09 March 1896 vol 38 cc449-50
MR. McCARTAN

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty, whether he is aware that many of the finest steamers afloat were built in the shipping yards of Belfast; and whether, considering the excellence of the work done there, he will see that some of the contracts for the additional ships required for the Navy are given to Belfast.

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

It is known at the Admiralty that many fine merchant steamers have been built in the shipping yards at Belfast. When obtaining tenders for new shipbuilding work it has been the practice of the Admiralty to invite those firms at Belfast capable of executing the work to quote prices and time of delivery. This practice will be continued with respect to the new shipbuilding programme. The actual placing of the contract, however, cannot depend on the wishes or goodwill of the Admiralty; it must depend on the offers received.

MR. J. DALY

asked whether some of the money would also be expended in the shipbuilding yards of Londonderry.

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order. That does not arise out of the Question.