§ Mr. ASHLEYasked whether the measured mile on the Maplin Sands is considered suitable for the speed trials of destroyers or torpedo boats; and, if not, what is the reason for the objection?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe measured mile on the Maplin Sands is not considered suitable for the speed trials of destroyers or torpedo boats, which exceed certain limits of speed, unless the results are subjected to examination and revision. The reason for this revision is that the speed of a vessel is, in certain cases, affected materially by the draught of water in which she is run, and may be in some cases increased, and in other cases decreased, by the small depth of water on the course.