HC Deb 26 January 1955 vol 536 cc132-3
13. Mr. Dugdale

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what route will be followed by H.M.S. "Superb" on her journey to Callao; and at what ports it is intended that she shall call.

Mr. J. P. L. Thomas

Her Majesty's Ship "Superb" passed through the Panama Canal on 23rd January after visiting Nassau and Kingston in the British West Indies, and is proceeding direct to Callao, where she is due to arrive on 28th January.

Mr. Dugdale

Is it not true to say that she is going to southern waters and will be sailing to the south to the whaling districts?

Mr. Thomas

This is a normal cruise and has nothing whatever to do with the whaling fleets. Her Majesty's Ambassador in Santiago has already made that clear.

Mr. Hobson

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think it desirable to have one of Her Majesty's cruisers in the Antarctic during the whaling season, in view of events which have taken place?

Mr. Thomas

A cruiser is not the only ship that Her Majesty's Government may have in that area.