§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked how many days per month the Fountain Lake entrance to No. 4 basin and the one dock at Portsmouth capable of admitting ships of the "Dreadnought" class can pass or accommodate such vessels at their average cruising draught; what is the difference in depth between such average cruising draught and the draught to which 1881 the ship has to be usually lightened for entrance or docking; what is the approximate weight that has to be removed to effect such lightening; and whether the Admiralty are satisfied that this entrance and dock are of adequate dimensions for the reception, except under extraordinary circumstances, of a ship of the "Dreadnought" class which has been injured in action?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe "Dreadnought" class at average cruising draught can pass the Fountain Lake entrance to No. 4 basin and be accommodated in No. 15 dock three times throughout the year. The difference in depth between the average cruising draught and the draught to which these ships have to be usually lightened for entrance or docking is about two feet. About 1,700 tons must be removed to lighten ship from average cruising draught to ordinary docking draught. When docking is in contemplation, arrangements are made to obtain the necessary draught by not completing with fuel and stores. The answer to the last part of the question depends on the circumstances. I would remind the Noble Lord that a new lock, a floating dock and a graving dock, are in course of construction at Portsmouth Dockyard.
§ Mr. ARTHUR LEECan the right hon. Gentleman say the earliest date on which the docking accommodation to which he refers will be available?
§ Mr. McKENNAI would require to have notice of that question.