HC Deb 11 March 1912 vol 35 cc822-3
Mr. ROBERT HARCOURT

asked whether the First Lord of the Admiralty will state how long the "Lion" will be delayed by reconstruction; and who is responsible for the alleged defects in design?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The original date for completion of the "Lion" was 29th November, 1911. It was found necessary to extend this date to the end of March owing to delays on the part of machinery contractors in completing the turbine machinery. The structural alterations now being made will involve a further extension, and it is hoped to complete the ship by the end of May. A general responsibility rests with the Board of Admiralty for everything connected with the Naval Service.

Mr. BURGOYNE

How many ships are likely to be affected by similar faults of design?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The "Queen Mary" is going to be altered in the same way.