§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked how many protected cruisers had been removed from the effective list since 1901, and how many had been laid down or provided for in the same period?
§ Mr. McKENNAFrom the beginning of 1902 to the present time there have been forty-six protected cruisers removed from the effective list, including four partially protected cruisers and fifteen vessels that are now being employed as fleet auxiliaries, etc. During the same period there have been nineteen protected cruisers laid down or provided for, exclusive of two for Australia, five "Boadiceas" which, although classed as unprotected in the Dickinson Return, have protective decks, and eight scouts which have protective decks.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with our increase in protected cruisers?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, Sir. The number I admit is less than those taken off the list, but if the hon. Gentleman will look at the effective strength of those supplied in place of those taken off the list he will find we are considerably stronger than we were.