§ 13. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is in a position to make a further statement in respect of the submarine M 2?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLSince the reply given on the 4th of this month to the hon. Member for West Leeds (Mr. V. Adams), the work of preparing the submarine for blowing the hull clear of water has been considerably advanced. All hatches are now securely closed, and further holes have been cut underneath various compartments. Air tests on certain compartments have revealed several small minor leaks, which it will be necessary to locate and seal. There is still a large amount of work of this sort to be done before any attempt can be made to raise the vessel, and it is still impossible to forecast when this will be.
Rear-Admiral CAMPBELLDoes my right hon. Friend consider that the expense which has been incurred in trying to salve the M 2 is justified, in view of the results that may be obtained?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLWe made up our minds to raise this submarine. We think we can do it, and we are going on trying to do it.