§ 2.35 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether a statement can be made showing what the total strength of the Fleet will be in 1961, in the various classes, distinguishing between ships that are operational and ships in reserve.]
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (THE EARL OF SELKIRK)My Lords, it is not the practice to give details of the size of the Armed Forces for periods two or three years ahead. I have, however, given as much detailed information as I can in my Explanatory Statement on the Navy Estimates, with which I am sure the noble Earl is familiar. I would also draw his attention to paragraphs 44 to 51 of this year's Defence White Paper, which outlined the tasks of the Royal Navy and the broad areas where ships will be maintained in order to fulfil them. I can assure the noble Earl that we intend to maintain a Fleet which will fulfil these tasks. We will also maintain in Reserve sufficient ships to keep the Active Fleet fully up to strength.
§ EARL HOWEMy Lords, in thanking the noble Earl very much indeed for his Answer, may I ask him whether he would dissent from the statement that in 1961 the operational Fleet will consist of three carriers and three cruisers, so far as important ships are concerned?
§ THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, so far as that is concerned, that statement has been made already in the White Paper and I do not think it requires my assent or dissent.
§ VISCOUNT ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, does the First Lord really think that that is adequate for the needs of the Royal Navy, even in peace time, with all the contingencies which constantly arise?
§ THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, that is a subject we have debated in the past and I have no doubt we shall debate again in the future. I do not think that at the present time I need to add very much to what I have said before.
§ VISCOUNT ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, I think the House and the public are entitled to know whether the Board of Admiralty really consider that to be sufficient. We need the minimum for security and for general policing duties.
§ THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, I think the noble Viscount must put down a specific Question if he wants that answered. I really cannot add to what I have said already on a matter which is really one for debate and not simply a question of fact.