HC Deb 06 February 1963 vol 671 cc418-9
2. Mr. Wall

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty what are his plans for H.M.S. "Belfast".

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

As I informed the right hon. Member for West Bromwich (Mr. Dugdale) last week, H.M.S. "Belfast" is to be placed in reserve and will. I hope, remain available for a number of years with the Royal Navy.

Mr. Wall

Can my hon. Friend assure me that he does not mean in reserve awaiting disposal? Does he agree that, in view of our great shortage of cruisers, this vessel has several useful years of operational life ahead of her?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I completely agree.