§ Mr. ASHLEYasked whether the Regulation governing the withdrawal of armoured ships from the commissioned fleets for repair and giving leave, which was issued with the Statement of Admiralty Policy of 1905, is still in force; and, if not, what has been substituted for it?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI must refer the hon. Member to my reply to the questions he put on this subject on 13th December last. Rigid regulations in such matters do not conduce to the effective readiness of the Fleet. It is much better for the Admiralty to exercise their discretion according to the necessities of the public service for the time being.
§ Mr. ASHLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on 13th December last he stated that if I put down a question he would tell me what Regulations wore substituted for those of 1905?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIf my hon. Friend can show me any promise that has been made, I will consider it.