§ Mr. BOWERMANasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the "Titanic" (45.000 tons) was advertised to be fitted with sixteen electric drop-doors controlled from the bridge, whereas the "Mauretania" (32,000 tons) has thirty- 1290 eight watertight doors, controlled hydraulically from the bridge, sealing thirty - seven watertight compartments below the water-line; whether this means that the "Titanic" was divided into sixteen watertight compartments as against thirty - seven watertight compartments of the much smaller vessel, or does it mean that the majority of the watertight doors, are not closed from the bridge but by hand-gear from the decks only; and, if the latter, assumption be correct, can he state how many of the deck hands after the collision were engaged in closing these watertight doors, in view of the call to the boat-stations?
Mr. BUXTONThe question of the design and construction of the "Titanic" will be considered in all its bearings by the Court of Inquiry which is now sitting. Information as to the method of closing the watertight doors and as to the steps, taken by those in command will doubtless be called for by the Court. In regard to the general question of bulkheads and watertight compartments, perhaps the House will allow me to state what action I propose to take in the matter. The construction of the ship as regards safety is of prime importance, and I have given the question very careful consideration and examination. After consultation with the Advisory Committee, I decided to appoint a Committee consisting of men with special technical knowledge of the subject to examine into the question and to advise me in regard to it. As the House knows, the formation of such a Committee always takes a little time, involving, as it does, correspondence and personal interviews, etc.; but I hope to be able to announce its appointment, with the terms of reference, to-morrow or Saturday. I may add that the inquiries and proposals of the Committee will not be confined to the larger class of vessels, but will extend to all classes of ships.