HC Deb 04 May 1909 vol 4 cc888-9
Mr. RENWICK

asked whether, in view of the fact that there is no dry dock on the East Coast suitable for the accommodation of vessels of the "Dreadnought" and "Invincible" classes, and of the fact that such docks cannot be constructed in less than two or three years if such docks are provided by private firms, the Admiralty will reconsider its decision not to give such firms a share of repairs to war vessels?

Mr. McKENNA

The Admiralty does not propose to depart from its present practice of docking and refitting His Majesty's ships at the Royal dockyards so far as practicable, but if it be found necessary to dock vessels of the "Dreadnought" and "Invincible" classes in private docks, where such may exist, opportunity would, of course, be taken to carry out such repairs as might be required to the vessels at the same time.

Mr. RENWICK

The object of my question is really to point out—

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member should have made his object clearer.

Mr. P. F. CURRAN

Is the Admiralty contemplating the construction of a dry dock on the Tyne.

Mr. McKENNA

I think the hon. Member should give me notice of that question.