27. Captain BENNasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty 1350 whether he can state the total sum voted to date for the cost of submarines, and the annual charge for maintenance and personnel?
Mr. DAVIDSONThe total expenditure incurred in building submarines from the financial year 1902–3 to the 31st March last was £46,800,348. The cost of repairs during the same period was roughly £5,700,000. To ascertain the cost of maintenance, stores and fuel would involve an amount of clerical work which, I think the hon. and gallant Member will agree, would not be justified in the circumstances. The annual cost of maintenance (including personnel) of all submarines at present in commission is. approximately, £1,378,000.