HC Deb 07 March 1923 vol 161 cc473-4
31. Sir G. HAMILTON

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether six ex-German mine sweepers have been secured by the Argentine Government; whther these mine sweepers were covered by the Clause in connection with the German fleet in the Treaty of Versailles; and what armament, if any, these mine sweepers carry?

Mr. AMERY

Ten ex-German mine sweepers were sold by the firm of Hugo Stinnes to the Argentine Government in August, 1922. All war material and warlike characteristics were removed from these vessels and surrendered to the Allies under Article 192 of the Versailles Treaty. They were. then, in accordance with Article 181 of the Treaty, available for commercial use.