§ Mr. Waller asked the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements were made to prevent the desecration of the official war grave HMS "Edinburgh" during operations to recover gold bullion from the wreck; and if he is satisfied that these were adequate.
§ Mr. Wiggin:To prevent desecration of the war grave by unauthorised salvors and to protect it to the fullest possible extent, arrangements for a controlled salvage were agreed, under a contract which provided for as little disturbance as possible to the wreck. Arrangement were also made for a Ministry of Defence observer to be present. After considering various salvage proposals, Jessops Marine Recoveries Ltd. was selected as being ################################### 140W most likely to be able to effect recovery in the required manner. I am satisfied that these arrangements were adequate. Reports on the operation are being prepared.