§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked how many docks are there in the British Empire, German Empire, France, and the United States capable of holding a "Dreadnought," namely, having a length over all of 500 feet, a width at entrance of at least 82 feet, and a depth over the sill at ordinary spring tides of 27 feet.
§ Mr. McKENNAThe number of docks actually complete and capable of taking a "Dreadnought" at normal draught is, for the countries named, as follows:—
| British Empire | … | … | 23 |
| German Empire | … | … | 6 |
| France | … | … | 5 |
| United States | … | … | 5 |
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREI did not ask the right hon. Gentleman a single word about normal draught.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI have pointed out to the hon. Member several times he is not entitled to comment upon an answer. One great advantage which a Minister has in this House is that when he makes an answer it must be accepted until the opportunity offers in Supply to comment upon it.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREI can assure you, Sir, that the right hon. Gentleman has not answered my question.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe right hon. Gentleman answered it very fully.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREMay I make a remark, Sir? I did not ask anything about normal draught. That is not the point. I should like to ask him, has he 23 docks capable of admitting "Dreadnoughts" 500 ft. long, 82 ft. in width at the entrance, and with a depth of 27 ft. over the sills?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs I understand the answer, it is in the affirmative to the hon. Gentleman's question. That is the normal draught of the "Dreadnought."