HC Deb 04 March 1953 vol 512 c36W
66. Dr. Bennett

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is now his policy regarding the re-equipment of the air arm with Attacker aircraft.

Mr. J. P. L. Thomas

It is not intended to re-arm any more naval fighter squadrons with Attackers now that Sea Hawks are becoming available. This is not because of any shortcomings in the Attacker as an operational aircraft but because only a limited number were ordered to overcome the shortage of jet fighters until the Sea Hawk came into service. The Attackers which are at present in front line squadrons will be withdrawn for pilot training as soon as there are sufficient Sea Hawks to enable this to be done.