Captain COOPERasked whether the experiment is being made of posting midshipmen to torpedo-boat destroyers; whether it is proving successful; and whether it is proposed to continue the practice?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe answer to all three parts of the question is in the affirmative, but experience has shown that it is advisable that the periods served by midshipmen in torpedo-boat destroyers should be of short duration, and instructions to this end are being issued.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked how many torpedo-boat destroyers have been provided for in the financial years 1906–7 to 1910–11 for the British and German navies respectively; and how many have been completed?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe hon. Member will find all the information he desires in the Dilke Return, which is shortly to be published, if he compares it with the issue of previous years about which he inquires.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREIs it impossible to state the figures? There has been some controversy in regard to this matter.
§ Mr. McKENNAI do not think a statement read in the House would be such as to enable the hon. Gentleman to follow the figures. I think it would be far better if the hon. Gentleman would put down a question for a written answer.
§ Mr. ARTHUR LEEWill the right hon. Gentleman say when the Dilke Return will be available for Members?
§ Mr. McKENNAImmediately.