§ Mr. ASHLEYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what was the contract date for the completion of the battleships "Monarch," Conqueror," and "Thunderer," and the battle cruiser "Princess Royal"; and what are now the anticipated dates for the completion of these ships?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Churchill)The reply to the first part of the question is 31st March, 1912. The anticipated dates for completion are:—
| "Monarch" | … | March, 1912. |
| "Conqueror" | … | August, 1912. |
| "Thunderer" | … | May, 1912. |
| "Princess Royal" | … | August, 1912. |
§ Mr. BURGOYNEAre the present labour troubles likely still further to delay these ships?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLYes. I am afraid all ships will be delayed if the labour troubles continue. With regard to the question of penalties, I could not deal with that in answer to a supplementary question.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked how many ships of the "Dreadnought" type are now in commission for the British Navy; and how many of these were completed by the contract date and within two years of the laying down of the first keel plate?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLEleven ships, excluding battle cruisers, of the "Dreadnought" type are now in commission for the British Navy. Four of these were completed by the contract date, or, in the case of dockyard-built ships, within two years of laying down the first keel plate.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREWhat action will the right hon. Gentleman take in regard to those ships which are not yet completed?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIf I may answer that in general, we shall press on with them as fast as possible. In regard to particular cases, each will be judged separately.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREIs there any fine for contractors?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIn certain circumstances there are penalties, but each ship must be considered by itself.
§ Mr. LANSBURYIs there a strike and a lock-out clause attached to the contract? Do they have it both ways?