§ 30. Mr. ALDENasked the percentage of ships lost homeward-bound to the United Kingdom and also the proportion of vessels carrying food supplies to the United Kingdom which have been lost?
Sir L. CHIOZZA-MONEYThe percentage of all ships engaged on overseas trade lost homeward-bound to the United Kingdom since 1st January, 1918, was rather more than 1½ per cent. As regards the second portion of the question, it is not possible to give the information in the exact form desired by my hon. Friend, as this would involve a complete analysis of all cargoes (including mixed cargoes) brought to the United Kingdom during 1918. It may be stated, however, that of all foodstuffs homeward-bound to the United Kingdom from 1st January, 1918, down to 30th June, 1918, the proportion lost was rather less than 1¾ per cent.