§ 7. Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked how many armoured ships of the pre "Dreadnought" era not launched more than fifteen years are now possessed by Great Britain and Germany, respectively, and what will be the corresponding figures in 1920?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe figures asked for by the hon. Member are as follows:—
The "Lord Nelsons" are not included in these figures. If they are added, the totals are sixty-four and eleven, respectively. I know no reason why a fifteen years' age limit should be any accurate or reasonable measure of the strength and efficiency of warships
January, 1913. Great Britain— Battleships … … 28 Armoured cruisers … … 34 Total … … 62 Germany— Battleships … … 18 Armoured cruisers … … 8 Total … … 26 January, 1920. Great Britain— Battleships … … 2 Armoured cruisers … … 7 Total … … 9 Germany— Battleships … … 4 Armoured cruisers … … 3 Total … … 7