HC Deb 09 February 1904 vol 129 cc721-2
MR. REGINALD LUCAS (Portsmouth)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether H.M.S. "Centurion" was recently commissioned with some of her guns wrongly sighted; and, if so, what steps have been taken to remedy the defects.

MR. PRETYMAN

All the "Centurion's" guns have correct sights. Some difficulty was experienced in fitting the old pattern mountings of the 10-inch guns with duplicate sights of a new design; it is hoped to rectify this shortly. The original sights are still fitted to the guns and are quite accurate.

MR. REGINALD LUCAS

As this matter is of considerable importance, I should like to ask what prospect there is of the sights being adequately corrected within a short time?

MR. PRETYMAN

I cannot say exactly how long it will take. It is a scientific question, but, if the hon. Gentleman will give me notice, I will answer the Question.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES (Lynn Regis)

Is the country to understand that this vessel is going to sea with incorrect sights?

MR. PRETYMAN

No, Sir; the original sights are correct, and are still fitted to the guns. A new pattern sight is fitted in duplicate which is not absolutely correct.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

Then are we to understand that the sights that are to be used are incorrect, and that the correct sights are not to be used?

No answer was returned.