§ 5. Colonel DAYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any of the injuries suffered by the naval ratings or civilian workers caused by a gangway collapsing between the jetty and the cruiser "Suffolk," at Portsmouth dockyard, have resulted fatally; and whether an inquiry has been held into the cause of the accident?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Bridgeman)I regret that one naval rating has died as the result of the accident. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Colonel DAYCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this accident was caused through the gangway not being made fast?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANAt the inquest attention was called to the way in which the gangway was attached. I have just received a report of the inquiry, but I have not had time to examine it sufficiently to say exactly what was the cause of the accident.
§ Colonel DAYWill instructions be given that men are not to be allowed to go up a gangway like that again?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANCertainly, instructions will be given to take more care, and, if any definite point is raised, that, of course, will be given special attention.
§ Mr. W. THORNECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the man in question was married, and, if so, what compensation will be paid?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI must ask for notice of that question.