HC Deb 04 August 1909 vol 8 c1836
Mr. MIDDLEMORE

asked how many protected cruisers have been removed from the effective list since 1st July, 1904, and how many vessels of this type have been laid down or provided for since the same date?

Mr. McKENNA

The number of protected cruisers which have been removed from the effective list since 1st July, 1904, is 22. The number of protected cruisers which have been laid down or provided for since 1st July, 1904, is 11.

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

Does the discrepancy between the right hon. Gentleman's figures and mine arise from a considerable number of second class cruisers being used for other purposes? My figures are very different.

Mr. McKENNA

The answer I have given is strictly accurate. Twenty-two cruisers have been removed from the effective list. The hon. Gentleman's figures, of which I have no knowledge, may or may not agree with mine, but I think he will find on examination that the figures I have given him arc right.