HC Deb 25 March 1914 vol 60 cc348-9
5. Lord C. BERESFORD

asked whether His Majesty's ship "Minotaur" is due for paying off in May of this year, and arrangements were being made to send out her relief crew; whether, on account of the Coronation of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Japan on the 10th November next, the ship's company will have to remain in the ship until after that date; and, if so, why the ship's company cannot be relieved at their proper date?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The recommissioning of the "Minotaur" has been postponed for six months for reasons which appeared to the Admiralty adequate, and generally for the convenience of the Service. The period of two years for the length of a commission is not a rigid one, and is constantly varied to meet Service requirements.