HC Deb 02 November 1916 vol 86 c1829
84. Major CHAPPLE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the strategic advantages that would have resulted from a mid-Scotland canal have been sufficiently demonstrated by naval engagements in the North Sea to justify him in getting an expert report with a view to the employment of prisoners of -war on a commercial and strategic enterprise that can have no relation to the present conflict?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am afraid I can only repeat the opinion already expressed to my hon. and gallant Friend that it is not practicable to enter upon a discussion on this matter at the present time.

Mr. WATT

May we now take it that the Department of the right hon. Gentleman see the great advantages that would accrue from such a canal during the War?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am afraid cannot answer that. All I can say is we cannot Consider it now.