HC Deb 05 June 1912 vol 39 cc119-20
1. Mr. MIDDLEMORE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty the number and total tonnage of ships displacing 1,000 tons and above maintained on various foreign stations in May, 1904; and what are the corresponding figures at the present time?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)

The figures are:—

Ships. Tonnage.
May, 1904 96 563,860
May, 1912 48 268,940
As the hon. Member is aware, the reduction is largely due to the policy of withdrawing ships from foreign waters initiated by Lord Selborne in 1904.

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that there is as much need now for these ships as there was in 1904?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I certainly concur in the policy of 1904. A number of these ships were costing money in personnel, stores and repairs when they were of no fighting value. I cordially concur in the policy initiated by Lord Selborne.

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider the policy applicable now?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I do not think the hon. Gentleman need have any apprehension as to our capacity.