§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked how many of the twenty destroyers of last 412 year's programme were actually laid down on 2nd March last; what was the actual date on which each destroyer was laid down; and at what yard was the work undertaken in each case?
§ Mr. McKENNAAll the destroyers of last year's programme were actually laid down before 2nd March last with the exception of the "Fury," which was laid down on the following day, and the "Minstrel" on 11th March. I will circulate the remainder of the information asked for with the Votes and Proceedings. I would remind the Noble Lord that these vessels were all ordered in October of last year, and that the contract dates for completion run from the date of order, and are not affected by the dates of technically laying down. [See Written Answers this date.]
§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDMay I ask the exact date of finishing?
§ Mr. McKENNAWithin eighteen months of the date of ordering in October last.