HC Deb 28 November 1928 vol 223 cc399-400
16. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many times he has been to sea in the Admiralty yacht His Majesty's Ship "Enchantress" during the last 12 months; how many times she has been used at sea by the other Lords Commissioners; and on how many occasions have warships been used by himself and/or the other Lords Commissioners for sea voyages during the same period?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The "Enchantress" has not been used for any sea voyage during the last 12 months, as she is not at present in all respects in a state of readiness for sea. Individual members of the Board of Admiralty have been to sea in His Majesty's Ships during the same period on several occasions, but I have no exact record of the number.

Lieut. Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask what is the justification for entailing the expense of keeping the "Enchantress" in reserve?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

It was thought that she might be useful at same future time. She is not being used now solely for reasons of economy.

Lieut. Commander KENWORTHY

Does the right hon. Gentleman not see that the answer he has just given that she may be useful at some future time might be used in favour of keeping up Pembroke Dockyard and other places?