§ Mr. RENWICKasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the two new floating docks will be fitted with self-propelling machinery, to enable them to be transported from one port to another; and whether there is any precedent for similar craft having been sent to sea during the winter months on the East Coasts of England or Scotland?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)The reply to both parts of the question is in the negative. With regard to the last part, however, it is, of course, well known that floating docks have frequently encountered very bad weather when being towed to their destination.
§ Mr. RENWICKAm I correct in assuming that one of the docks will be in Portsmouth Harbour with a view to being transferred to other ports on the coast?
§ Mr. McKENNAI should like to have notice of that.
§ Mr. RENWICKHave the responsible advisers for the construction of these docks looked into the question of pumping machinery for propelling the docks?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe hon. Member may be sure that all these questions have been considered.