§ MR. J. M. MACLEAN (Cardiff)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether the present armament of Steep Holme Island, which forms the Central position in the line of defence of the Bristol Channel, consists of a few light muzzle-loading guns of a very antiquated type, mounted on batteries which have remained almost unchanged since 1859, and which are manned by a weak detachment of Marine Artillery?
THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. W. ST. JOHN BRODRICK,) Surrey, GuildfordThe armament at Steep Holme Island, though not of the newest type, is by no means antiquated. It will be replaced by more modern guns when more urgent requirements have been met. During peace the batteries are in charge of a small detachment of Royal Artillery. In case of mobilisation for war, an ample garrison is provided.