§ 1. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty 122 what progress has been made with the building of the capital ships laid down or to be laid down this year; when it is anticipated that these ships will be completed; and whether the total cost of each ship has been calculated?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Amery)The detailed designs for the new capital ships are not yet sufficiently far advanced for tenders to be invited. It is anticipated the construction of the ships will take approximately three years from the date of the contract being signed. An estimate of the probable total cost of each ship has been made, but it is not desirable that this information should be published until tenders have been accepted.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay I assume that no steps have been taken yet with regard to the laying down, building and collecting material for these ships?
§ Mr. AMERYA very small preliminary expense has been incurred, but nothing material affecting the complete freedom of this House to decide on the question when the Estimates come before it.
§ 2. Captain Viscount CURZONasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether the names for the new capital ships have yet been decided upon?