HC Deb 26 March 1969 vol 780 cc1607-8
24. Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

asked the Secretary of State for Defence by what date he expects that Her Majesty's Government will place an order for an additional Fleet submarine.

Mr. John Morris

Negotiations are taking place with Vickers, and we hope to place the order very soon.

Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

Does the Minister appreciate that these ships are extremely valuable and the main striking force of the Fleet? Is he aware that this sort of delay is one of the reasons why the Government's defence policy is just not catching on with the public?

Mr. Morris

I am well aware of the first part of the hon. and gallant Gentleman's Question—there is no delay.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

May we have an idea of the cost of this submarine?

Mr. Morris

No. It is not practice to give the cost of this submarine until the order has been completed.