§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he would state when it was first decided to construct the new lock at Portsmouth; when the plans were prepared; when the contract was awarded; what is the total estimated cost; how much has as yet been expended; and what is the anticipated date of completion?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe contract was placed in July, 1908, and the final decision to construct the lock was taken immediately before that date. The total estimated cost is £940,000. The expenditure up to date is £173,000. The reply to the last part of the question is, early in 1913.
§ Mr. ARTHUR LEECan the right hon. Gentleman say why such a small amount has been expended in the two years since the contract has been placed?
§ Mr. McKENNAIf the hon. Member will give me notice I will give him the exact details of the expenditure. I do not carry the figures in my head.