HC Deb 08 November 1916 vol 87 cc163-4
1. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will state how many Allied and neutral merchant vessels, respectively, have been captured; and how many have been destroyed by the operations of the Germans in the North Sea against the shipping entering and leaving the ports of Holland since 16th June?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)

I am not able to add to the statements of losses which appear in the newspapers as they occur.

Commander BELLAIRS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the newspapers do not give a full account of the losses?

Dr. MACNAMARA

As far as I know, they do.

Commander BELLAIRS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that four big lighters built for us in Holland were taken into Zeebrugge, captured by the Germans, and no announcement of any kind has ever been given on this side?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am not aware of it.

Commander WEDGWOOD

Have the Admiralty considered the advisability of building merchant steamers for this country?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Under the Amended Munitions of War Act merchant shipbuilding can be declared war work, and it has been so declared.

Commander WEDGWOOD

By the Admiralty?

Dr. MACNAMARA

By the Board of Trade, in consultation with the Admiralty.

Commander BELLAIRS

May I ask why the right hon. Gentleman cannot give the figures, and how can anybody reckon up these figures from the statements? Why not give the totals to the House?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I told my hon. Friend that the statement appeared in the newspapers.

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