85. Mr. FRED HALL (Dulwich)asked what will be. the combined strength in 1915 of the fleets of Germany, Austria, and Italy on the one hand and of Great Britain, France, and Russia on the other if the present shipbuilding programmes of the respective countries are adhered to?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe total strength of Germany, Italy, and Austria-Hungary in battleships, battle cruisers, and large armoured cruisers, not over twenty years old from date of launch, will be ninety ships. That of Great Britain, France, and Russia will be 162 ships.
Mr. FRED HALLIn calculating the number of ships of Great Britain, France, and Russia has the right hon. Gentleman included any of the ships which have been offered by the Dominions?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo, Sir. I do not think that these figures include the four vessels which are outside the programme.
§ Mr. LEEWill the right hon. Gentleman circulate figures showing how the different classes of these ships are totalled up as between modern and ancient ships?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe answer given is with regard to ships which are under twenty years old. If a more precise discrimination is required, perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put down a question showing the form in which he would like the return.