§ 15. Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the vessels "Harlequin," "Insolent," and "Ant," used for landing liberty men from the Fleet at Spithead, are obsolete and unsuitable for the duty, and that the "Harlequin" cannot steer with accuracy; whether he is aware that these vessels have sometimes to visit six or seven ships in order to get the men on board; and, seeing that owing to this sometimes the men do not get ashore until five o'clock in the afternoon, although their leave is supposed to commence at 1.30, 12 whether the Board can see their way to supply vessels suitable for this work?
Mr. LAMBERT (Civil Lord of the Admiralty)The "Ant" and "Insolent" are no longer in use for this service. A vessel large enough to replace them both has already been purchased and is expected to be delivered in September. The "Harlequin" was acquired in 1908, and is reported to be a suitable vessel in regard to accommodation and speed. I am not prepared to accept the Noble Lord's suggestion that she cannot steer with accuracy. She is, however, reported to be unhandy, and arrangements are being made to effect certain improvements in her. In regard to the last part of the question I have received no report indicating that the time occupied in getting the men ashore is as great as is suggested by the Noble Lord.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDWhat is the difference between steering badly and being unhandy?