§ 37. Rear-Admiral Morgan Gilesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made with the de- 1816 velopment of a surface-to-surface missile for the Royal Navy; and when it may be expected to be in service.
§ Mr. MasonAs I told the hon. Member for St. Albans (Mr. Goodhew) on 12th April, we are still considering the alternatives, but I hope we shall soon be able to announce a decision.—[Vol. 744, c. 1189.]
§ Rear-Admiral Morgan GilesFrankly, I do not understand that Answer. If the hon. Gentleman was answering the Question, will he say what purpose these missiles are intended to serve, and are they included among other means to which his right hon. Friend has constantly referred as replacements for the aircraft carrier?
§ Mr. MasonAs the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows, we recognise that there is an urgent need for tactical strike capability. There may be a gap as the aircraft carrier falls out of commission, and we are giving urgent consideration to what type of weapons will be used, but this is tied up with the shape and size of the future fleet and its requirements. My right hon. Friend will be covering this in his statement before the House rises.