§ 9. Mr. YERBURGHasked whether, in the Estimates for 1912–13, money was allocated for the provision of a hospital ship; whether such a ship was designed; whether the design was approved by the medical department; whether the construction of the ship has not been proceeded with; whether, in place of it, a merchant ship acquired by the Admiralty is being converted by them into a hospital ship; if so, what is the reason of this action on their part; and has it the approval of the medical department?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe facts are as stated in parts 1 to 5 of the question. As regards the 6th part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the Admiralty letter to the Treasury, printed on pages 103 and 104 of the Navy Appropriation Account for 1912–13. The arrangements for the purchase and conversion of the vessel have been drawn up in consultation with the medical department of the Admiralty throughout.