§ 4. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the First Lord of the Admiralty the total cost of the aircraft carrier H.M.S. "Eagle."
§ Mr. J. P. L. ThomasI am not yet in a position to state the total cost of H.M.S. "Eagle," but I hope that it will be possible to give a close estimate of the figure in the forthcoming Navy Estimates for 1952–53.
§ Mr. HughesHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the Select Committee's evidence and reports, in which the cost of the previous aircraft carrier was given as more than£14 million? Will he say if this one was more, or less, and if we are to order any more?
§ Mr. ThomasTo borrow a phrase from a colleague, I would reply that the bon. Member cannot expect me to anticipate my Navy Estimates.