HC Deb 29 April 1909 vol 4 c465
Mr. LONSDALE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will state when the new dry dock at Rosyth will be completed; and whether its capacity will be such that a damaged "Dreadnought" may enter if drawing more water than ordinarily through having some of her water-tight compartments flooded?

Mr. McKENNA

The contract date for the completion of the Rosyth Dock is February, 1916. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. LONSDALE

Are we to understand that from now until February, 1916, there will be no dry dock available for the purpose of receiving "Dreadnoughts" in the condition suggested in the question?

Mr. McKENNA

No, Sir.

Mr. ASHLEY

Would it not be possible by giving a premium to the contractor to accelerate the completion?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes, Sir; a premium has been offered to the contractor for the acceleration of the dock.