32. Mr. Gresham Cookeasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the Government of the United States of America are building submarine-chasers and hydrofoil ships capable of speeds up to 60 knots; what research is being carried on in this country into ships with hydrofoils; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. C. Ian Orr-EwingThe Royal Navy is in very close touch with current developments by the Government of the U.S.A. and by others of our N.A.T.O. allies and we are watching the possible military applications of these techniques with interest.
Mr. Gresham CookeWould my hon. Friend agree that the hydrofoil ship seems to have a great future as a submarine chaser? The Russians are building one and the Americans are building an 80-tonner with a speed of 60 knots. Should not we, as a maritime nation, be in the forefront of this development and use all our brain power to get there?
§ Mr. Orr-EwingThere are many research and development projects on which we should like to spend money, but we have to be strictly selective. In this instance, there would be no point in duplicating the efforts of our close allies.