§ Mr. FELLasked if the Norwegian granite to be supplied for the dockyard at Rosyth stands the British weather and climate as well as Aberdeen or Cornish granite; if there is any evidence of the durability of this granite; if there are any works in Britain of 100 years old of Norwegian granite, or any other conclusive proofs of its lasting qualities?
§ Mr. McKENNAIt is rather early to say whether Norwegian granite will stand British weather as well as British granite, but the Admiralty are quite satisfied with its quality. I am not aware whether there are any works in Britain of 100 years old Norwegian granite. I do not think I can draw any better distinction between the lasting qualities of British and Norwegian granite than that drawn between Aberdeen and Cornish granite by an eminent engineer, who, when asked which would last the better, replied that one would last for ever, and the other perhaps a little longer.
§ Mr. FELLWill Norwegian granite last say 100 years? Is there any evidence that it is durable granite and not granite cut from the surface which is nothing like so durable as that which is cut from a depth?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have said I cannot give the test of experience. I do not know of any British works where Norwegian granite was employed 100 years ago, but as far as examination of the qualities of Norwegian granite goes there is strong ground for believing that it will last as long as we are likely to want it.