HC Deb 26 July 1909 vol 8 cc840-1
Mr. ARTHUR LEE

asked whether the first two battleships of the 1909–10 programme have yet been laid down; if not, when is it anticipated that they will be laid down; and do the contracts provide that these vessels shall be completed by July, 1911?

Mr. McKENNA

One of the two battleships of the 1909–10 programme was laid down on the 8th instant. It is expected that the other will be laid down during the next 10 days. The contracts provide that both these vessels shall be completed on or before 1st July, 1911.