44. Dr. Bennettasked the First Lord of the Admiralty for what purpose he purchased the naval armament vessel "Amherst"; how much he paid for her; what view on this purchase was given by his naval constructors; what were the dates, duration and cost of her first refit at Glasgow, of the further repairs at Milford Haven, and her prolonged repairs at Malta; and whether she is now due for further attention.
§ Mr. J. P. L. ThomasThe "Amherst" was purchased in November, 1951 to replace the naval armament vessel "Bedenham" which was lost in the explosion at Gibraltar. Inspection in dry dock by naval constructors revealed only minor structural defects. Her refit and56W conversion into an armament vessel took place at Glasgow between 8th December, 1951, and 28th July, 1952, and some minor work was done at Milford Haven while she was loading, between 30th July and 9th August. While at Malta, between 23rd August and 21st November, alterations to the boiler firing arrangements were made and additional ballast fitted, as a result of experience on the outward voyage. No further major work on her is contemplated.
It would be contrary to Admiralty policy to disclose publicly the price paid for the ship to her previous owners. The price to be paid for the major items of work carried out at Glasgow is still under negotiation. The costs subsequently incurred at Milford Haven and Malta were £722 and £9,250 respectively.