HC Deb 04 April 1928 vol 215 cc1940-1
8. Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what capital ships, if any, of His Majesty's Navy are still due to be scrapped under the terms of the Washington Convention; and, if there are any such, will he consider using them as targets for bomb-dropping experiments from aeroplanes?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

No capital ships of His Majesty's Navy are due to be scrapped until 1934. When the time comes I have no doubt that consideration will be given to the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion.

Lieut.- Commander KENWORTHY

What is happening to the four "Iron Duke" class which were to have been scrapped when the "Nelson" and "Rodney" were completed? Have they already been scrapped?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I should prefer to give an accurate reply. May I send the hon. and gallant Gentleman a reply in writing?

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Certainly. If these four ships which were due to be broken up have not been broken up, would the right hon. Gentleman consider their use for the purpose of these very important experiments?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

We are only allowed, under the Washington Convention, one mobile target ship of that size, and we have one already.