THE FRENCH NAVY.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 9526, 25 June 1909, Page 5

THE FRENCH NAVY.

SENSATIONAL REPORT,

FINDING OF COMMISSION OF INQUIRY. DEFECTS IN GUNS. (Jnited Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright. Received June 24, 9.55 p.m. PARIS, June 24. The French Navy Commission has submitted its report, which is of a sensational character, The report declares that France Ihas spent 120 million sterling during the last decade, and Germany rather less. Yet France, though the second naval power a decade ago is now only fourth. Germany was then fourth, and is now second. This is due to {he absence of organisation. Ships had been ordered before the plans were completed. Six battleships of the Danton type cost 50 per cent, above the estimates. There was not a single graving dock for the accommodation of the Danton. These latter vessels would be finished in 1911, but the guns and ammunition would only be ready in 1914 and 1915. Some guns were ordered without the models being tested. The defects existing in the guns had caused so many accidents that the Mediterranean Squadron had abandoned firing practise. Some of the big guns were worn out after 100 rounds had been fired from them.