HC Deb 03 April 1946 vol 421 c1234
24. Captain Francis Noel-Baker

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will state the number, respectively, of German and obsolete British submarines scuttled by, or under supervision of, the R.N. since the termination of hostilities with Germany.

Mr. Duģdale

The number of U-boats sunk at sea by the Royal Navy since the end of the war is 120. No obsolete British submarines have been scuttled since V.E. Day.

Captain Noel-Baker

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether great care is taken to remove any equipment that might be of use before these submarines are scuttled? I have in mind, particularly, generating plants. Could he say that without notice?

Mr. Duģdale

I am afraid I should want notice of that question.

Colonel Sir Charles MacAndrew

Why does not the Admiralty sell these obsolete submarines for breaking up?

An Hon. Member: Or to live in?

Mr. Duģdale

The answer is that we are bound to sink them under international obligations.