HC Deb 19 May 1909 vol 5 c390
Viscount CASTLEREAGH

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will state the original cost of building H.M.S. "Gladiator," the cost of raising H.M.S. "Gladiator" after her collision with the liner "St. Paul," and the sum received as proceeds of the sale of H.M.S. "Gladiator"?

Mr. McKENNA

The original cost of the "Gladiator" was £287,604. The cost of salving her was approximately £50,500. She was sold for £15,125.

Viscount CASTLEREAGH

Seeing that the original cost was £287,604, the cost of salving her £50,500, while she was sold for only £15,125, was it worth while to raise her?

Mr. McKENNA

The wreck had to be cleared. If she had been exploded the explosion might have caused damage on shore. The best course, therefore, seemed to be to remove the wreck.

Mr. H. A. WATT

I should like to ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the breaking-up condition was attached to the sale, and if so, how much has the nation lost by the sale?

Mr. McKENNA

My impression is that the usual break-up condition was not attached to this sale.