TNA ADM 199 795

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SECRET
DESTRUCTION OF ENEMY HARBOURS
IN CONQUERED TERRITORY.
The value of the Dutch, Belgian and
French North Sea ports to the enemy as bases for
light surface craft and Submarines needs no stress-
ing. Some effort has been made to immobilise
certain of these ports by blockship operations,
demolition work etc, (generally carried out rather
hastily), but from aerial photographs and various
events which have occurred since the occupation by
the enemy, it seems practically certain that a
number of these ports are already being used as
bases for "E" boats and possibly destroyers.
2.
It is submitted that the question of
further immobilisation of these ports should be
given most energetic and immediate consideration.
3.
It is understood that the nature of
the Dutch coast is such that considerable difficulty
has been experienced in building harbours due to
strong tides and the tendency to silting up of har-
bour entrances (hence the extensive breakwaters at
Ymuiden and Zeebrugge). It is suggested that this
fact might be used to advantage in the further des-
tructive work proposed, e.g. the breaching of break-
waters etc. which would cause silting up.
4.
The question is one for experts who
know the ports well (i.e. Dutch harbour engineers)
and it is thought probable that some of these persons
are in this country as refugees, and would be willing
to advise in this matter. It appears to be a matter
for the Admiralty to initiate.
5.
The methods to be employed for further
destructive operations must depend on the results of
the proposed examination. These might consist of
M.T.B. or F.A.A. Torpedo attack, naval or aerial bom-
bardment, or a raid to cover demolition work.
6.
The essential factor in organising any
operation of the sort envisaged is speed. Every day
that we wait gives the enemy opportunities to instal
and consolidate defences.