Were British cruisers weakened by cheap construction?

Would Britain have had better cruisers if it had stopped trying to economize?

That criticism fits York and Exeter better than the original Counties. Other classes reflected different requirements and circumstances.

The original County-class cruisers were expensive ships with a sound design. York and Exeter were cheaper developments and provide a clearer example of economy shaping the design. The Didos answered an emergency need, while the Arethusas were useful ships. Economy explains some British cruiser choices, but each class also needs to be considered against its own requirements.