§ MR. BELLAIRS (Lynn Regis)To ask the Secretary to the Admiralty when the last refit of H.M S. "Philomel" was completed and at what cost; on what date the order was given for her to be put on the ineffective list and dismantled; on what date she was towed round this year to Haulbowline to be refitted; whether the work was commenced; whether the work has now been suspended; and whether the Admiralty are satisfied that all these steps were calculated to increase efficiency.
§ (Answered by Mr. Edmund Robertson.) The last refit of H.M.S. "Philomel" was completed at Haulbowline in 1904, at a total cost of £23,924. The ship was ordered to be placed in the E Division of Reserve on 7th December of the same year. She was towed round to Haulbowline to be refitted 31st August, 1906; the work has been begun and is still in progress. With regard to the last part of the Question, as the result of the "Philomel" being placed on the list of "Ships of comparatively small fighting value" the cost of her upkeep in commission has been saved, and it is not considered that the action taken has been contrary to efficiency.