HC Deb 16 April 1907 vol 172 c755
MR. HUNT (Shropshire, Ludlow)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty what are the anticipated dates of completion of the three armoured vessels of the "Defence" class laid down in February, 1905; and whether the "Defence," laid down 22nd February, 1905, is yet launched.

MR. EDMUND ROBERTSON

The date for completion of "Minotaur" and "Shannon" is 31st March, 1908. The launch of the "Defence" is fixed for 27th April, 1907, and the date for completion is December, 1908.

MR. BELLAIRS (Lynn Regis)

Can the right hon. Gentleman point to any similar delay in the case of Germany?

MR. EDMUND ROBERTSON

I must ask for notice of that Question.

MR. BELLAIRS

asked if an earlier date was not fixed in the Cawdor Memorandum for the completion of the ships?

MR. EDMUND ROBERTSON

That can be answered by reference to the Memorandum itself.