§ MR. FELL (Great Yarmouth)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty what is the estimated cost of the construction and equipment of battleships of the "Dreadnought" type when constructed under contract at private yards: and how much of that sum they consider to be profit.
§ MR. LAMBERTThe only vessel of this type under construction by private contract is the "Superb," and it would be contrary to the practice of the Admiralty to publish the figures as to cost at this early stage of her construction. It is impossible to answer the second part of the Question.
§ MR. FELLI beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty when H.M.S. "Dreadnought " is expected to take her place with the Home Fleet, and at what port on the eastern coast will she be stationed.
§ MR. LAMBERTThe "Dreadnought" has already taken up her place as flagship 345 of the Home Fleet, and is now cruising with the Nore Division. She will generally be stationed at the Nore, but may be at the other naval ports on which the Home Fleet is based at the discretion of the Commander-in-Chief, Home Fleet.
§ MR. GEORGE FABER (York)Is there any harbour on the east coast where the "Dreadnought" can be docked?
§ MR. LAMBERTShe can be docked at Portsmouth and at Devonport.
§ MR. GEORGE FABEROn the east coast?
§ No Answer being given, the hon. Member repeated the Question.
§ *MR. SPEAKERThe hon. Member has had an Answer.
§ MR. GEORGE FABERWith the greatest possible deference, Sir, I said on the east coast.
§ *MR. SPEAKERI heard the hon. Member's Question perfectly, and I heard an Answer given. Two ports were mentioned. The hon. Member can deduce whatever conclusion ho chooses.