§ 13. Mr. WATTasked the First Lord of the Admiralty at what date the steamer "Aquitania" was launched and what date was ready for sea; what was the price reported to be paid for her by her owners; at what date was she taken over by the Government, and how much money was spent on gutting her out and fitting her for the Admiralty's work; is the Government under contract to replace the whole of the fittings, etc., taken out of her; and, if so, will he say what it is estimated such replacement will cost his Department?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)The "Aquitania" was launched on the 21st April, 1913. She was ready for sea about 30th May, 1914, that being the date of starting her first voyage. The Admiralty have no knowledge of the price paid by the Cunard Company for the vessel. She was taken over by the Admiralty on the 31st July, 1914. The work of removing superfluous woodwork from the ship, and fitting her out for Admiralty purposes, was carried out by the Cunard Company, the figures of the actual cost not yet being available. Liability as to replacement of fittings, etc., is set forth in the agreement with the company, Command Paper, No. 1703, of 1903. Negotiations are now in progress with the company as to the extent of those liabilities.