HC Deb 01 November 1939 vol 352 cc1912-3
21. Sir William Davison

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can assure the House that adequate measures are being taken, in conjunction with the authorities of Eire, to prevent German submarines from sheltering or refuelling in the various bays and inlets on the coast of Eire, and, in particular, on the West Coast?

Mr. Churchill

So far as the territorial waters of Eire are concerned, the responsibility rests exclusively with the Government of that country. Outside these waters on the high seas, the Royal Navy are taking such measures as are open to them, and I can assure the House they are doing their best.

Sir W. Davison

Does my right hon. Friend recollect that in the Great War a very large number of coast watchers were employed by the Admiralty to watch the West Coast of Ireland in order to guard against matters referred to in my question; and can he assure the House that he is satisfied as to the present position?

Mr. Speaker

rose

Sir W. Davison

Can we not have an answer to that question? This is a matter vitally affecting the security of the country and I have asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is satisfied that it is being dealt with.

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