§ 9. Mr. TOM SMITHasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Vice-Admiral commanding the Reserve Fleet is to tour the British Isles in his cruiser flagship for his annual inspection this year; and if so, what is the estimated cost or whether, in the interests of economy, he is to travel from Portsmouth to Devonport, Chatham, and Rosyth by rail?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The annual inspection and training cruise of the Vice-Admiral Commanding, Reserve Fleet, in his flagship (His Majesty's Ship "Effingham") will be carried out this year between 17th June and 31st July, when various ports will be visited, the programme being arranged to facilitate the embarkation and disembarkation of reservists due for training. In view of the great importance of providing training opportunities for these reservists, the principal purpose of the cruise would not be served were the Vice-Admiral to travel by rail. It has not been possible in the time available to prepare an estimate of the small additional expenditure involved.