HC Deb 10 February 1915 vol 69 c546
4. Mr. FELL

asked the number and tonnage of enemy ships which have been captured and are in British waters; if any of these ships are suitable for commercial purposes; and if it is proposed to use them at once for the purpose of carrying grain to this country from the River Plate?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Thirty-six vessels captured from the enemy, with a total gross tonnage of 56,766, and 73 enemy vessels detained, with a total gross tonnage of 93,354, are now in ports of the United Kingdom. Of these, all steam vessels that are fit for sea and are not employed on Government service, are engaged in the ordinary trade of the country.