HC Deb 15 June 1917 vol 94 cc1311-2
11. Mr. ANDERSON

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the "Mauretania" is and has been for over a year anchored in certain home waters; whether during that time it has been and still is hired by the Government, and, if so, what rate is being paid for such hire; and whether, in the interests of economy, steps will be taken either to determine the hiring or to put the vessel to greater use?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of SHIPPING (Sir Leo Chiozza Money)

It has been decided that the steamship "Mauretania" should be kept constantly available for use in emergency, and for this purpose an agreement has been arrived at with the owners by which she is held in this condition for payment of a very small sum, barely sufficient to cover the cost of the necessary care and maintenance. The terms, indeed, are exceedingly favourable to the Government.

Mr. WATT

May we take it that she has been lying in that position for the last year?

Sir L. CHIOZZA MONEY

As a matter of fact she has not been in that position for a year, but for a much shorter period.