§ Sir R. Glynasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many trawlers were lost during the war in carrying out mine-sweeping and other duties; what was the compensation paid to the owners; and whether he is satisfied that these losses have been replaced so that in time of emergency there will be an adequate number available of modern types to carry out the necessary tasks.
§ Mr. CallaghanTwo hundred and fifty-one, of which about half have been replaced by new ships. I regret that the information to answer the second part of the Question is not readily available. I am satisfied that sufficient suitable ships are available in the present trawler fleet to meet the planned initial requirements for the Navy on the outbreak of war.