asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the declared intention of Germany to sink hospital ships at sight which are homeward bound from the Mediterranean, the Government will arm such ships or bring them home under escort, and will, in any case, carry on them captured German officers of the highest rank available?

The statement as to the declared intention of Germany to sink hospital ships at sight which are homeward bound from the Mediterranean, is not understood. No notification has been received of any intention on the part of the enemy to sink hospital ships which keep west of a line from Lands End to Ushant.

As regards the suggestion that captured German officers should be carried on board hospital ships, I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend, the Leader of the House, to the hon. Member for the Ludlow Division, on the 18th March last.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Spanish Commissioners are sent with ships after they leave Gibraltar on account of the risks run?

Homeward bound?

Yes.

I was not aware of that.

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries? I am informed that is so.