HC Deb 05 April 1939 vol 345 cc2808-9W
Sir R. Rankin

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he can give an assurance that the majority of the vessels comprised in the mercantile marine of this county have now been strengthened for the mounting of guns in the event of an emergency; and whether guns and ammunition are now available for such vessels?

Mr. Shakespeare

As I stated in my speech introducing the Navy Estimates on 16th March last, it is anticipated that about 1,000 merchant ships will have been stiffened for the mounting of guns by the end of 1939. Sufficient antisubmarine guns are in stock to meet all expected requirements and ammunition for them is available. Good progress is being made in the provision of antiaircraft guns and ammunition is being provided concurrently.