HC Deb 25 July 1978 vol 954 cc1352-3
11. Mr. Banks

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish the number of warships currently under construction for the Royal Navy.

Dr. Gilbert

There are currently 18 major warships of MCMV size and above under construction for the Royal Navy. In addition, two Island class ships and a number of smaller vessels are being built.

Mr. Banks

Why is it that every time a Socialist Government leave office we have fewer warships than when they came in?

Dr. Gilbert

The hon. Gentleman might ask himself why it is that every time a Socialist Government are in office the fire-power and general capability of the Royal Navy are higher than when they entered office.

Mr. R. C. Mitchell

Will the Minister confirm that it is still the policy of the Ministry of Defence to have naval warships built primarily in the three specialist naval shipyards, which are Yarrow, Vickers and, in particular, Vosper Thornycroft?

Dr. Gilbert

It is the policy of the Ministry to rely on those yards for "first of class" builds of warships. But, of course, as my hon. Friend will know, we place subsequent orders very widely at other shipbuilding yards throughout the country.

Mr. Evelyn King

Does the Minister agree that the number of warships under construction is insufficient?

Dr. Gilbert

All Services and all Defence Ministers want as much material as possible to be placed at their disposal. However, I am satisfied that the shipbuilding programme of this country gives the Royal Navy the capability it needs to meet our assigned share of the threat.