London Times, 18 May 1908, p. 6: RUSSIA – THE DUMA AND THE MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR (From our own correspondent.) St. Petersburg, May 17. (Except.) The Budget Committee have refused the eleven million roubles (£1,100,000) asked for the construction of new battleships. This decision was not unexpected. It reflects the general sentiment that the Admiralty is not yet competent to deal with the question what navy Russia requires. Moreover, in view of the deficit in the year’s Budget and the probability of the expenditure of a large sum on the Amur Railway, financial considerations necessitate the postponement of shipbuilding.
Provided by Stephen McLaughlin