Sir JOHN JACKSONasked whether a contract has been signed for the construction of floating docks, for which tenders were obtained about a year ago; if so, when was the contract signed, and with what firm; and has construction yet commenced?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe contracts have not yet been signed, but preparations for construction have commenced.
Sir JOHN JACKSONDoes the right hon. Gentleman not consider that it is expedient at present that no undue delay should occur in providing dock accommodation, either floating docks or otherwise, to take any of the largest class of vessels which are now being built?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, I am entirely of the same mind as the hon. Gentleman upon the desirability of increasing our docking accommodation, and steps are 2074 being taken at the present time with that object.