THE H.M.S. TORCH.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 65, 9 November 1912, Page 8

THE H.M.S. TORCH.

(Per Press Association.)

Auckland, November 8

Commander Le Hunte Ward, of the H.M.S. Torch, interviewed regarding the statements cabled concerning the vessel, said that when the Torch was posted to the reserve at Sydney five or six years ago it was generally understood that she would ho turned into a hulk. Those responsible postponed overhauling the vessel from year to year. This was winked at by the official eye with the result that when instructions were cabled that the Torch was to he recommissioned to replace the Pegasus in Friendly islands there was consternation in X.S. Wales naval circles. The Torch was certainly docked, but there was only time for a hurried adjustment of her machinery and effect the repairs absolutely necessary. At the beginning ol last year the Torch left Sydney and proceeded to the Islands. All went well until near the end of a 1700 miles’ tour, when the propeller shaft snapped. She was towed to Sydney by H.M.S. Psyche. This necessitated a full report on the vessel’s condition, and as a result an inquiry is to ho held regarding the condition of the vessel when she put to sea from Sydney. Jommander Ward is of opinion that cue inquiry will ho held in Australia, i'lie vessel has now been thoroughly overhauled. '