HC Deb 11 June 1901 vol 97 c85
MR. HARMSWORTH

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty, having regard to the fact that the "Dreadnought" originally had in her turrets four 12.5 38-ton, Mark I. muzzle-loading guns, which have been replaced by other muzzle-loading guns, and that the change involved great alterations, such as cutting away a portion of the armour, can he state what expense was entailed, and in what respects the fighting efficiency of the ship has been increased.

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

In 1897 the Mark I. muzzle-loading guns of the "Dreadnought" were replaced by similar guns of a later pattern, having lower pressures and an increased muzzle velocity. It was not necessary to cut away the armour, the only alteration involved being that which was necessary to strengthen the gun slides. The total cost involved in the alteration to the guns and gun mountings was £3,250.

MR. PAULTON (Durham, Bishop Auckland)

Then are vessels still being armed with muzzle-loading guns?

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

No; for a long time past no ships have been armed with them.

MR. PAULTON

But did not the hon. Gentleman say the guns were replaced in 1897?

* MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

Yes; the old guns were then replaced by newer guns of the same kind.