§ 53. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for Air to state the total tonnage of the 48 surplus vessels sold in Iraq to Lord Inchcape for £10,000, and how many of them were fitted with steam or other motive power; whether these vessels were operated by the Inland Water Transport Service; and for what purpose were they used?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs regards the first part of the question, the exact tonnage of the vessels is not known, but I am having the information obtained and will communicate it to the hon. and gallant Member. As regards the second part, three small steamers, four tugs, four motor boats and a fire float are fitted with power. The answer to the third part is in the affirmative. As regards the fourth part, the vessels Were maintained primarily for use in a military emergency, but were utilised as required for transport of petrol, oil and general stores and the local conveyance of personnel by water.