asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the fact that the French Government have purchased a number of diving bells of the type used in rescuing the crew of the United States of America submarine "Squalus"; and whether the Admiralty will take a similar course?

With regard to the first part of the question, the answer is "Yes." The Admiralty has been in touch with the American naval authorities concerning the details of this diving bell. The possibility of its adoption will be considered together with other questions affecting the safety of submarines.

Can the hon. Gentleman inform me what is the cost of these diving bells?

I am afraid I cannot.