§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked the First Lord of the Admiralty when the Admiralty will have formed their judgment as to the substitution of other anti-torpedo armament in place of the three-pounders in the 1165 ships of the "Warrior" class; and when he anticipates that the judgment in question will he carried into effect?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have nothing to add to the reply to the hon. Member's question on this subject of 20th May.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate the fact that the crews of these ships entertain the profoundest dissatisfaction, and in some cases dismay, in regard to the torpedo armament? Does the right hon. Gentleman think they will be in a condition to enter successfully into action in that frame of mind?
§ Mr. McKENNAI think that would be rather an exaggerated view even as regards some members of the crews. I do not think any dismay has entered into their mind. The armament of the ships designed as early as this particular class is not considered satisfactory in every respect.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREReally the Admiralty are not taking the right hon. Gentleman into their confidence. These are brand new ships, and as to two of them—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member seems to be giving information instead of asking it.