§ Mr. A. V. Alexander(by Private Notice) asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can give any further figures of the U-Boat war against merchant shipping?
§ The First Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. Churchill)We have stated that the losses by U-Boat sinkings in the first week of war were 65,000 tons, in the second week 46,000 tons, and in the third 21,000 tons. That carries us from Sunday, 3rd September, to Sunday, 24th September. I shall now give the House the figures for the period of two weeks from 24th September to 9th October. During this period we have lost by U-Boat action 5,809 tons. We have taken from the enemy 13,615 tons, leaving a balance in our favour for that fortnight of 7,806 tons. There have been no further losses since the 9th. Therefore, my figures cover a period of 16 days. During this period of 16 days 50,000 tons of new merchant shipping have come into the water. We are, therefore, 58,000 tons better off than we were when I last gave figures to the House.
§ Mr. AlexanderCan it be clearly understood from the First Lord of the Admiralty that in the last period we captured 13,615 tons of shipping?
§ Mr. ChurchillWe have captured that tonnage of actual shipping.
§ Mr. ThorneIf that goes on for three years, you will have a very big credit to your account.
§ Mr. BellengerWhile giving this balance-sheet, can the right hon. Gentleman also include further figures of sunk submarines?
§ Mr. ChurchillI am afraid that is a more speculative account.