§ Mr. ASHLEYasked what would be the armament of the United States battleships of the current year's programme, and what would be the weight of their broadside; and what proportion their broadside would bear to that of the British "Dreadnoughts" down to and including the "Neptune."
§ Mr. McKENNAThe battleships of the current year's programme in the United States will have an armament of 10 12-inch guns and 16 5-inch guns, with a weight of broadside fire of 9,100 pounds. The weight of broadside fire for the "Dreadnought" is 7,034 pounds; for the "Bellerophon" class, 7,110 pounds; and for the "St. Vincent" class, 7,172 pounds. It is not desirable to give the information as regards the "Neptune."
§ Mr. ASHLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is officially announced to Congress that they will have not 10, but 12 12-inch guns?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe hon. Member refers to ships of this year's programme?
§ Mr. ASHLEYYes.
§ Mr. McKENNAI think he is in error when he refers to this year's programme.
§ Mr. CHIOZZA MONEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that if he increases the cost of the armament of these ships be will stop a number of subscriptions to charities?