§ Lord C. BERESFORDasked whether all the second-class cruisers of the "Bristol" and "Dartmouth" classes were satisfactory as regards their machinery; and whether any of these ships had broken down?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe ships of the "Bristol" and "Dartmouth" classes are considered to be satisfactory as regards their machinery. The "Bristol" and "Dartmouth" have had some stripping of turbine blading since delivery from the contractors, one turbine in each ship being affected. This has temporarily reduced the power of these ships till repairs are made good by the contractors.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDAre these ships effective now? If not, how long will they be before they are effective?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThey are now in process of having their turbines repaired by and at the expense of the contractors.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDasked whether any modern second-class cruisers were in the Reserve?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe reply to my Noble Friend's question is in the negative.