§ 79. Sir A. Southbyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether any increase in the approved 1938 new construction programme is contemplated?
§ Mr. ShakespeareThe programme is being increased by the acquisition for urgent Fleet service of 16 commercial trawlers and one drifter. The consequent expenditure will be reflected in a Navy Supplementary Estimate which will be introduced before the close of the current financial year.
Mr. AlexanderWill the Supplementary Estimate be confined to that particular service, or will it be more general?
§ Mr. ShakespeareIt will include also expenses arising out of the emergency?
§ Mr. Henderson StewartDo the Admiralty now look upon drifters as being valuable vessels in time of emergency?