Aircraft Carrier "Melbourne"

HC Deb 28 April 1954 vol 526 cc1604-5

15. Mr. Callaghan

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty when the Aircraft Carrier "Melbourne" will be completed; and if he will give an assurance that the cost of building will be fully borne by the Australian Government, and that it is still their intention to take her over on completion.

Mr. J. P. L. Thomas

I expect that this ship will be completed and handed over to the Royal Australian Navy in the latter half of next year. No change has been made or suggested in the general financial arrangements agreed by the previous Administration and described in the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General on the Navy Appropriation Account, 1948–49.

Mr. Callaghan

Has the First Lord had any approaches made to him by the Australian Government in view of the change in their Defence policy, under which they are to abolish the Fleet Air Arm?

Mr. Thomas

None whatsoever. As far as I know, the matter rests exactly as it did.