§ Lieut.-Colonel WILLEYasked the Prime Minister the tonnage value of surrendered ships of the German mercantile marine at present market price; and what is the calculated price as set off against the reparation claims?
Colonel WILSONI have been asked to reply. In the present state of the market, and in view of the great variety of types of vessels delivered or to be delivered by Germany under the terms of the Peace Treaty, it is impossible to give an estimate of the value of the tonnage. Under the agreement reached with the Allies at Spa in July last, the value to be credited to Germany in respect of the vessels allotted to Great Britain will be based upon the prices realised by their sale, subject to any deductions rendered necessary by repairs or the expenses of delivery.