HALIFAX - A British MP says Canada got a bad deal when it bought four used diesel-electric submarines from Britain.

Mike Hancock, a Liberal Democrat who is a member of his country's coalition government, says Britain knew there were problems with the subs before the 1998 sale.

And, Hancock says he's appalled Britain went ahead with such a deal with an ally.

Canada spent $750 million for the four vessels, which have been plagued by problems.

Hancock says the side of the subs should have been painted with the words "buyer beware."

He adds Canada was "daft" to buy the subs, which sat idle for five years before Canada bought them.

Hancock says Canada should think about asking for its money back.