Diesel engine generating plant and batteries were not removed from captured German U-boats before they were sunk. As stated by the First Lord of the Admiralty, in reply to the hon. Member for Orkney and Shetlands (Sir B. Neven-Spence) on 23rd January, 1946, these U-boats were sunk in accordance with our international obligations. This equipment formed an integral part of the U-boats and it would not have been possible to remove it within the time set for carrying out these obligations. Salvage operations would not be possible.