§ Mr. LONSDALEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether it is in contemplation to establish a naval base in Belfast Lough; and whether he is able to make any statement as to arrangements that may be in progress for the defence of the Lough and for the maintenance at Belfast of a naval force for coast defence and the protection of commerce?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)There is no intention of making a naval base in Belfast Lough, which is a commercial harbour. Its defence has been provided for in the general scheme for the defence of all important commercial harbours.
§ Mr. LONSDALEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the new graving dock at Belfast is capable of accommodating a "Dreadnought"?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, Sir; but that does not arise out of the question.