§ Sir JAMES DOUGHERTYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether early in January an American destroyer was employed in protecting the mail packets between Kingstown and Holyhead; whether this has now been withdrawn; and, if so, having regard to the importance of this passage, whether an efficient substitute will be immediately provided?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAEvery attention is given to the safety of these vessels, but my right hon. Friend will realise that a definite answer to his question cannot be given, as it is most undesirable to publish the disposition of any of the Allied Forces either in the past or future.
§ Mr. FIELDasked the Secretary to the Admiralty what further arrangements have been made to protect the cross-Channel traffic seamen and passengers on mail and other steamers?
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§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am sure my hon. Friend will, on consideration, realise that an answer to this question would be of great benefit to the enemy, without conferring any additional safety to the cross-Channel traffic. His object of course is, as ours is, to secure the latter, at the same time avoiding the former.