11. Sir H. DALZIELasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is able to give any information to the House in regard to the steps that are being taken by the Admiralty towards counteracting the activity of enemy submarines?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe problem referred to in my right hon. Friend's question is one that has long been engaging the close and unremitting attention of the Admiralty; but I do not think that the Allied cause would be assisted by detailed public discussion. All important as the question is, it may be worth while for my right hon. Friend and the House to bear in mind the following fact. Of the total British gross tonnage of merchant steam shipping of 1,000 tons and over which we possessed at the beginning of the War, the net loss up to the end of the 30th September, 1916, is slightly over 2½ per cent. This includes losses from all causes, whether war or marine risks.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs that 2½ per cent. of the ocean-going tonnage or the total tonnage?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMerchant shipping tonnage of 1,000 tons and over.
§ Mr. G. FABERIs that after taking into account the losses made good?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIt is the net loss on the balance.
§ Dr. MACNAMARACertainly.