File No. 763.72/5037
The Ambassador in Great Britain ( Page) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9.50 p.m.]
6326. Sims to Navy Department:
Total losses Allied and neutral for week ending 27 May 117,454 tons. Reports indicate that during week an average of 12 large submarines had been operating, 6 probably in enemy main area of operations to westward of Ireland. Considerable activity in Mediterranean and renewal of activity in Bay of Biscay. On May 29 evidence indicated increased submarine pressure in English Channel and Irish Sea approach. Mine laying by submarines which has shown temporary lull has recommenced, principal areas affected between Dover and Cromer. Daily average of mines destroyed in last three months, 17. Twenty-four encounters with enemy submarines during past week: 3 by destroyers, 1 by submarine, 6 by special service ships, 5 by merchant ships, 6 by auxiliary patrol craft, 2 by sea plane, one by French submarine. With increase of available antisubmarine craft enemy is being forced to attack by torpedo instead of gun fire and this results in shorter cruises and more uncertain dates of return to bases and difficulty in maintaining definite prearranged programs. Hence the Admiralty expect from now on alternating periods of greater and lesser activity. Admiralty desires to report officially that United States destroyer force working on Atlantic approaches are rendering most efficient and valuable service. Sims.