§ Mr. FELLasked what was the strength of the British fleet in the Pacific Ocean, and how many ships there were on the China and Australian Stations respectively?
§ Mr. McKENNAIn addition to torpedo craft, gunboats, etc., there are on the
§ CHINA STATION:—
- 4 Armoured Cruisers,
- 2 2nd Class Cruisers,
- 2 Sloops,
§ and on the
§ AUSTRALIAN STATION:—
- 1 Protected Cruiser, 1st Class,
- 3 2nd Class Cruisers,
- 5 3rd Class Cruisers,
- 1 Sloop in reserve.
§ Two sloops are employed on the West Coast of America. A cruiser from the China Station and another from the Australian Station are at present cruising in the Pacific.
Sir GILBERT PARKERDo I understand that there is not a single first-class battleship in the China or Australian seas?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, that would be inferred from the reply.