MR. CRUDDAS (NewcastleuponTyne)I beg to ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the Commission which has been appointed to inquire into the state of the defences of 934 the Clyde will, in consideration of the important interests involved in its docks and shipping, as well as in its works for the production of ships of war and ordnance, extend its inquiries to the Tyne?
THE UNDER SECRETARY OP STATE OR WAR (Mr. ST. JOHN BBODRICK,) Surrey, GuildfordThe case of the defence of the Tyne is not analogous to that of the Clyde. The defences of certain ports on the Tyne have been completed, and further fortifications are contemplated. The exact scheme has not been decided on. I understand that a communication is about to be addressed to the War Office on the subject.