§ 20. Viscount CURZONasked Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many battleships left England on the present cruise of the Atlantic Fleet and how many of these ships were flagships?
§ Sir J. CRAIGEight battleships, of which five are flagships, are taking part in the present cruise of the Atlantic Fleet. The other two ships are detached, i.e., "Royal Sovereign," under repair, and "Malaya," with H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYDoes not the hon. and gallant Gentleman think this an undue proportion of flags to be flown on a squadron of only 905 eight ships, and in view of the necessity for economy could not some reduction be made?
§ Sir J. CRAIGNo, Sir.
§ Commander BELLAIRSDoes the figure include the "Hood," which is really a fast battleship carrying the flag of Sir Roger Keyes?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI would not like to answer offhand. The hon. and gallant Gentleman had better put down a question.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYDoes not the hon. and gallant Gentleman think it somewhat unfair to the post captains in these ships, who have less chance of handling sub-divisions and getting experience?