HC Deb 13 July 1910 vol 19 cc344-5
Mr. ASHLEY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that of the eleven destroyers on the Mediterranean station four have been launched sixteen years, four others fourteen or fifteen years, and the remainder from ten to fifteen years; and whether, in view of the fact that a number of River class destroyers now serving in the fully-commissioned flotillas of the Home Fleet will shortly be relieved by the vessels of the "Beagle" class, he will consider the advisability of sending some of the River class boats to the Mediterranean instead of transferring them to the reserve flotillas at home?

Mr. McKENNA

I am aware of the age of the destroyers in the Mediterranean. It is not proposed to make any change at present.

Mr. ASHLEY

Is that satisfactory, seeing that these old ships may have to meet modern craft?

Mr. SPEAKER

The right hon. Gentleman is not called upon to answer a question of that nature.