HC Deb 07 July 1909 vol 7 cc1179-80
Captain FABER

asked how many copies of the Memorandum, dated March, 1906, and mentioned by Sir George Armstrong, in which the First Sea Lord takes credit to himself for having saved seven millions over Rosyth, were printed; how many were circulated; by whom were they circulated, and for what reason?

Mr. McKENNA

I have nothing further to say in reply to the series of similar questions addressed to me by the hon. and gallant Member.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to cease the circulation of these letters?

Mr. McKENNA

I have nothing to add to the previous reply.

Captain FABER

The right hon. Gentleman has never given me any information at all. May I ask him to do so now? I have never asked him a question on this subject before.

Lord BALCARRES

Have any questions about this document dealing with Rosyth and the saving been answered in this House?

Mr. McKENNA

Similar questions with regard to other confidential documents have been asked, and I have stated that I cannot undertake to give any further replies with regard to confidential documents.

Captain FABER

May I ask why the right hon. Gentleman said he had answered my questions when I had never asked any?

Mr. McKENNA

I said "similar questions."

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman can give any information as to when the wireless telegraph will be in working order at Rosyth?

Mr. McKENNA

Under present arrangements the wireless telegraph station at Rosyth will be ready about the close of the present year.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman could state how many men are now employed at Rosyth?

Mr. McKENNA

The number of men employed at present by the contractors on the work at Rosyth is 115.