HC Deb 15 June 1934 vol 290 c2045W
Sir R. GOWER

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what stage experiments have reached regarding methods whereby a sunken submarine may make its position known and for saving life therefrom; whether satisfactory devices have yet been discovered; and whether he has any statement to make?

Sir B. EYRES MONSELL

In addition to the older means of indicating position, such as by firing smoke signals and discharging oil, air or torpedoes, all submarines are now fitted with two special indicator buoys, which can be released from inside the submarine. Life saving is effected by means of the Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus, used in conjuction with special escape hatches and escape trunks or chambers, with which all submarines are fitted. For a full statement of the Admiralty policy with regard to submarine salvage, I would refer my hon. Friend to my speech of the 12th March introducing the Navy Estimates.

Description. 1929. 1930. 1931. 1932.
Tons. Tons. Tons. Tons.
Tinned Plates 467,186 413,103 347,366 394,960
Tinned Sheets 426 203 422 936
Terne Plates 8,217 7,979 4,618 5,630
Terne Sheets 1,149 75 55 53
Tinned Plates, sheets and strips, shaped, decorated, printed, etc., for boxes and other containers. 100 275 171 640