§ 2. Mr. SHAWasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can state the gross tonnage of British steamships lost during the War up to the 31st October last and to what extent the loss has been made good by new construction and by purchase from abroad?
§ Dr. MACNAMARABy arrangement with the Allies the losses for October cannot be published until three weeks have expired from the end of the month. During the War, up to the 30th September last—
Gross tons The gross tonnage of British merchant steamships lost by enemy action and marine risk amounted to 8,946,000 This has been made good by new construction, tonnage purchased abroad, and enemy tonnage captured and brought into service, to the extent of 5,443,000 Leaving a net deficit on the 30th September last of 3,503,000
§ Mr. SHAWDoes that mean that, as compared with July, 1914, there is a deficit of British ocean-going ships to the extent of 20 per cent?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy hon. Friend raises a question that I should like to look at in regard to "ocean-going." I should not like to say offhand.
§ Sir C. HENRYCan the right hon. Gentleman state approximately the amount of the mercantile gross tonnage before the War?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI should want notice.
§ Mr. HOUSTONCan the right hon. Gentleman give separate figures of war loss as against marine loss?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI have no doubt that could be done if a question were put down.