§ 64. Mr. Emmottasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the decision of 921 His Majesty's Government not to lay down any destroyers this year is subject to early revision?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (Mr. Shakespeare)His Majesty's Government reached this decision after a careful review of existing requirements. Provided no important new consideration arises, there is no necessity for it to be reviewed.
§ Mr. EmmottAre His Majesty's Government satisfied that to abstain from laying down destroyers this year will not prejudice the maintenance of the proper balance between the different categories of ships?
§ Mr. ShakespeareYes, that is, of course, one of the factors that has influenced the position. We have in recent years maintained a steady production of destroyers, but in this year's programme we are concentrating on the less advanced categories of battleships, aircraft carriers and cruisers which, incidentally, take much longer to build.
§ Mr. DonnerWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the large number of submarines which are being built in many foreign countries at the present time?
§ Mr. ShakespeareYes, Sir.