Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what reports he has received of looting by salvage teams of the wreck of HMS Queen Mary which was sunk in the Battle of Jutland; and whether his Department has been presented with any evidence of such looting.

The Ministry of Defence became aware of the possible illegal salvage of items from HMS Queen Mary in 2011. After due consideration, and following liaison with UK and international prosecution authorities, it was concluded by the Ministry of Defence Police that no further action could be taken. We are not aware of any British nationals being involved in this case or of any current illegal salvage on the Jutland wreck sites. Should such activity come to our attention the matter would be reported to the Ministry of Defence Police.