§ 57. Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many of His Majesty's ships are at present fitted to burn either coal or oil fuel; and whether, in view of the dangers attaching to our dependence on foreign fuel, he will consider the desirability of adopting dual fuel-burning in all future vessels to be built?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLNone of His Majesty's ships is fitted alternatively to burn coal or oil fuel. The suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend has been thoroughly considered, but in view of the many disadvantages attendant upon the use of a dual system from the standpoint of Fleet efficiency, it is impossible for the Board of Admiralty to adopt such a system.
§ Sir W. BRASSIn view of the importance of this subject to the coal industry, can my right hon. Friend give an assurance to the House that the whole matter is having his careful consideration?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLYes, Sir. The use of coal by the Navy has been frequently considered from the standpoint of the coal industry, but, even if the Navy burnt coal exclusively, its consumption would not exceed one-half of one per cent. of the total national output of coal.