HC Deb 17 May 1909 vol 5 cc5-6
Mr. ASHLEY

asked the Secretary of State for War when the mounting of the two 9.2-inch guns in the Ravelin Battery at Sheerness was completed; what was the total cost of the guns and their emplacements; for what object were they mounted; how many times have they been fired since the mounting was completed; and on what date the last firing took place?

Mr. HALDANE

These guns were handed over in a completed state on 11th February, 1908, to the Royal Artillery. The total cost of guns, mountings, ammu- nition, etc., and emplacements was £54,473. They were mounted for the protection of the approaches to the Medway and Chatham Dockyard. They have not been fired since they were handed over.

Mr. ASHLEY

What is the reason these guns have not been fired, in order to enable the gunners to practice?

Mr. HALDANE

They were fired before and they will be fired again in the summer.

Mr. ASHLEY

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware they cannot be fired owing to the foundations having sunk?

Mr. HALDANE

I am not aware of anything of the sort. All that was put right some time ago; the hon. Member's information is out of date.