§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked 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. McKENNAThe 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. MIDDLEMOREDoes 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. McKENNAThe 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.