13. Mr. VYVYAN ADAMSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will inform the House of the progress made in the salvage of the submarine M 2?
Lord STANLEYWork has been proceeding steadily in preparation for blowing the hull clear of water and is well advanced. All hatches have now been securely sealed and cemented except the forward hatch, which will shortly be completed. Holes have been cut in the pressure hull underneath the engine room and after compartment, and further holes may be found necessary under other compartments. These holes are to allow the water to escape from the pressure hull when air pressure is turned on. It is not possible at this moment to give an indication as to when a definite attempt will be made to raise the vessel.
Mr. ADAMSCan my Noble Friend inform me whether the general use of indicator buoys for diving operations in peace-time presents insuperable mechanical difficulties?