HC Deb 21 February 1940 vol 357 c1376W
Mr. Lipson

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that at least one shipping company is sending its ships to sea without their being fitted with anti-aircraft or anti-submarine guns, because they are unwilling to bear their share of the cost; and will he take steps to see that all merchant ships are provided with these necessary weapons of defence against enemy action?

Mr. Churchill

Action is being taken in conjunction with the Ministry of Shipping to see that all ships are armed as rapidly as circumstances permit.