Captain FABERasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will state when the "Invincible" will be ready for service, and how much of her so-called refit is comprised in the renovation of her heavy gun-mountings; and what are the dates of her completion for sea, her first commissioning, and of commencing her refit?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe "Invincible" was completed for sea and left contractor's works for Portsmouth on 17th March, 1909; the date of first commissioning was 20th March, 1909; and the date of coming into dockyard hands was 17th August, 1909. It is hoped she will be ready for sea early in November.
Captain FABERCan the right hon. Gentleman inform me how long it is usual for a new ship to run before she goes in for repairs?
§ Mr. McKENNAI should think much longer than the period in the present case, but I cannot give the precise period.
§ Mr. McKENNAI should think so, but I cannot say without reference.