§ 17. Mr. Liptonasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty when H.M. Yacht "Britannia" is due to return to the United Kingdom from the voyage commencing on 6th May.
§ Mr. C. Ian Orr-EwingNo date has yet been fixed.
§ Mr. LiptonThat is a rather surprising reply. In the circumstances, may I reserve critical comment on this Government expenditure until the honeymoon is over? Meanwhile, may I wish bon voyage to all who will be sailing in "Britannia" this week, not forgetting the 257 naval officers and ratings in whose welfare, of course, the Civil Lord is profoundly interested?
§ Mr. Orr-EwingMay I make it clear that the 257 officers and ratings to whom the hon. Gentleman referred would be there in "Britannia"—in the same numbers if not the same personnel—and have had to be there ever since the decision was taken to build the Royal Yacht. The use of the Royal Yacht does not in any way affect the numbers and the pay going to these sailors.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesSince this voyage is to cost at least £1,000 a day, is it not possible that, if it goes on for an indefinite period, the Chancellor will have to have another credit squeeze? Does not the hon. Gentleman think that he could make some money if after this much advertised ship was free of this venture it was put on the New York-Miami-Caribbean sea route, where it would be very popular among American millionaires who would be able to pay the cost of the ship?
§ Mr. Orr-EwingThe hon. Member believes that by constantly repeating the figure he will be able to make it appear accurate and believable. However, his figure is absolutely wrong. It would be just as logical to ask what the cost of the salaries of the House of Commons staff was and then to charge it to the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. G. R. HowardIs my hon. Friend aware that the ship's company of Her Majesty's Yacht "Britannia" deem it an honour to show the flag so effectively in the Caribbean?
§ Mr. Orr-Ewing indicated assent.