HC Deb 06 April 1922 vol 152 c2406
61. Sir PARK GOFF

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what precautions were taken to guard the "Upnor," whose cargo was seized off the South Coast of Ireland; under whose orders the "Upnor" proceeded to sea; under what circumstances the ship was captured on the high seas; and whether he can give any information as to where the cargo was conveyed to, if any of it has yet been recovered, and, if so, what amount?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Amery)

An inquiry has been ordered by the Admiralty, but the report has not yet been received, and I am, accordingly, not at present in a position to give a full answer. I desire to add, however, that the prompt action of the Commander-in-Chief of the Western Approaches in sending a destroyer and a sloop in pursuit, immediately he knew of the suspicious circumstances attending the sailing of the tug "Warrior," prevented the greater part of the cargo being removed from "Upnor."

Sir P. GOFF

Is it customary, considering the present state of Ireland, for vessels to put to sea with such an important cargo without a proper escort?

Mr. AMERY

Precautions were taken until the "Upnor" had got out of Queenstown harbour.

Sir P. GOFF

Were any precautions taken before she had got out?