HC Deb 02 May 1923 vol 163 cc1353-4
19. Viscount CURZON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been drawn to the remarks made by the Secretary to the United States Navy with reference to the difference in extreme elevation, and consequent difference in range, of the heavy guns of the United States fleet and the British fleet; and whether any statement can be made showing the actual facts regarding the elevation and range of the heavy guns in the two fleets?

Commander EYRES-MONSELL

It is understood that the maximum service elevation and range of the main armament guns of United States battleships range from 15 degrees elevation and 21,000 yards' range to 30 degrees elevation and 34,500 yards, and of British ships from 20 degrees elevation and 23,800 yards to 30 degrees elevation and 30,300 yards. I propose, with my Noble and gallant Friend's permission, to circulate fuller details in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Commander BELLAIRS

In view of the fact that the Japanese also intend to increase the elevation of the guns on all their capital ships, could not we enter into communication with both Governments to stop a fresh race in armaments?

Commander EYRES-MONSELL

We do not propose to alter the elevation, and although the Americans appropriated money for that purpose, they have, on our assurance that we are not going to do so, abandoned the idea. My hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Maidstone (Commander Bellairs) has raised an entirely different question.

Mr. WHEATLEY

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman explain to us what we have to fear from the quality of the American guns?

Following are the details:

United States Battleships.
Yards.
16-inch guns, 45 cal., 30° … 34,500
14-inch guns, 45 cal., 15° … 21,000
12-inch guns, 50 cal., 15° … 24,500
45 cal., 15° … 22,000
British Battleships.
Yards range.
15-inch guns, 30° elevation … 30,300
15-inch guns, 20° elevation … 24,300
13.5-inch guns, 20° elevation … 23,800