§ Mr. BURGOYNEasked whether the armoured units of the current programme have all been ordered; and, if so, on what dates they were laid down, and when it is anticipated that they will be completed?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLOf the five large armoured ships of the current programme the orders for the two contract-built ships have been placed with Messrs. Vickers, Limited, and Messrs. Beardmore and Company, Limited, respectively. In each case the date of provisional order was 30th January of this year; and the contract date for completion is 30th December, 1913. The two dockyard-built battleships were laid down last month at Portsmouth and Devonport respectively, and it is expected that they will be completed during the 448 latter half of January, 1914. The tenders for the contract-built battle cruiser have been received, and are under consideration.