HC Deb 25 February 1914 vol 58 cc1742-3
7. Mr. MIDDLEMORE

asked how many protected cruisers have been transferred to the sale or subsidiary lists since the beginning of 1913; and how many new vessels of this class have been completed in the same period?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Twelve protected cruisers have been transferred to the sale or subsidiary lists since the beginning of 1913, and four new vessels of this class have been completed in the same period On the other hand, eighteen light cruisers are under construction.

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

According to the right hon. Gentleman's figures have we not a net loss of eight cruisers since January, 1913?

Mr. CHURCHILL

By the process of subtracting four from twelve you get the result of eight. On the other hand, eighteen light cruisers are under construction.