HC Deb 27 October 1902 vol 113 c806
SIR WILLIAM ALLAN (Gateshead)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty if His Majesty's battleship "Montagu" has had a trial trip, and if he will state what have been the results, and the condition of the Belleville water-tube boilers after the run.

THE SECRETARY TO THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. ARNOLD-FORSTER,) Belfast, W.

The results of the trial trip of the "Montagu" have been unsatisfactory. There was considerable leakage from the joints of sleeves in the boilers, and a number of the lead plugs in the generator tubes blew out, owing to their being incorrectly fitted. The sleeves and plugs are being replaced, and it is anticipated that no further trouble will arise.

SIR WILLIAM ALLAN

May I ask who bears the expense of repairs to this new battleship under these circumstances?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

The contractors for the engines.