HC Deb 18 March 1925 vol 181 cc2235-6
22. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how long the "Hawkins" took to build; how long the sister ship "Effingham" is expected to take to build; and what were their respective costs?

Mr. DAVIDSON

The answer is—"Hawkins," time, three years and two months; total cost, including guns, £1,636,745; "Effingham," estimated time, eight years and three months; estimated total cost, including guns, £2,175,000.

Commander BELLAIRS

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us whether the very great difference in cost is due to the length of time the ship is taking to build?

Mr. DAVIDSON

I should not like to say so offhand.

Mr. ERSKINE

Would it not be best if these ships were built in Germany?

Mr. DAVIDSON

No, Sir.