HC Deb 18 January 1940 vol 356 c239W
Sir R. Gower

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the danger to local fishermen resulting from the practice of sinking unexploded mines, he can arrange for steps to be taken to ensure that these mines are blown up instead of being sunk by rifle fire?

Mr. Shakespeare

Special ships are being fitted out for blowing up floating mines, and these ships will work in the areas where most of the floating mines are to be found. It is essential, however, that patrol craft should continue to sink floating mines by rifle fire, as a mine on the surface is a menace to shipping.