HC Deb 23 July 1914 vol 65 c627
35. Mr. KING

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty on how many vessels in the Royal Reserve of merchant cruisers has work been done by owners at the expense of the Admiralty; and what value of fittings, armaments, clothing, utensils, and other stores has been provided by the Admiralty for the same vessels?

Mr. G. LAMBERT (Civil Lord of the Admiralty)

If the question is intended to refer to merchant vessels armed for defensive purposes, the number is that given in my right hon. Friend's reply of the 15th of this month. I do not wish to make any statement at the present time in reply to the second part of the question.

Mr. KING

Will a statement be made later about this question?

Mr. LAMBERT

I would rather not say.

Mr. KING

How can we judge the policy unless we have some facts and figures?