§ Sir HAROLD ELVERSTONasked how much per ton is being paid for the hire of the old ships on which aliens are now being interned; and what is the approximate amount paid per month for the hire of these ships?
Mr. BAKERThe vessels, which are not correctly described as old, were requisitioned, not hired. The rate of payment ranges from 15s. 6d. to 17s. 6d. per ton per month, with a reduction of 6d. per ton per month after two months. The approximate monthly payment for the first two months was £86,000, afterwards £83,000.