§ 66. Mr. HUDSONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty how long the storage magazine for explosives at Purfleet Wharf has been built; what was the cost of building it; and whether it is in good condition?
§ Colonel SEELYThis magazine was originally built in 1763, but the cost is unknown. I am informed that the present magazine is in excellent condition.
§ 67. Mr. HUDSONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether a barge containing cordite grounded on an old pile stump or other obstruction at the Purfleet magazine wharf a short time ago, thereby causing the barge to leak and wet the bottom 199 layer of boxes of cordite; whether the boxes of wet cordite were stacked on the top of boxes of dry cordite; and has he received any Report with regard to the magazines, as to whether they are damp or dry, and the condition of the cordite stored in them?
§ Colonel SEELYNothing is known of the occurrences mentioned in the first three parts of the question. No special report has been received as regards these magazines. They are, however, stated to be dry. The cordite stored in them is reported to be in a serviceable condition.