§ Vice-Admiral TAYLORasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether it is still the usual practice for a surface craft to be present when submarines are carrying out experimental work; and whether that practice was followed in the case of M.2?
Lord STANLEYWhen submarines are carrying out any unusual or experimental work, a surface vessel is invariably in attendance. M.2, however, was not engaged in experimental work. On the occasion of her loss, she had proceeded to sea to carry out an ordinary programme of independent exercises which included hoisting out and replacing her seaplane. M.2 had carried a seaplane for over four years, and these evolutions were a normal part of her day's work. No question, therefore, arose of her being accompanied by a surface craft.