HC Deb 24 July 1957 vol 574 cc62-3W
94. Mr. Bottomley

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will make a statement about the future use of the Royal Naval coastal forces.

Mr. Paget

95, 96 and 97. asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (1)whether he will make a statement with regard to the proposal to sink H.M.S. "Hornet";

(2)whether he will give the value of coastal craft to be scrapped; and how much of this is new or under construction;

(3)whether he has considered the value of coastal craft in piratical conditions in the Persian Gulf and the Far East and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Soames

Coastal forces are to be reduced to a small trials unit in commission, and additional craft will be kept in reserve to meet our N.A.T.O. commitments in war. The remainder will be disposed of. The Coastal Forces base ashore, H.M.S. "Hornet," will not be required and will be closed down.

It is necessary to concentrate available men and money on the most versatile and highest priority naval forces. Coastal forces are very highly specialised and, consequently, have had to give way in favour of ships which can be used in a variety of rôles. I am sure the House will appreciate that the decision implies no reflection on the great traditions and history of coastal forces, which may yet have a vital part to play in the future. The nucleus organisation has been retained for this reason, so the art will be kept alive.

I would hope that it will not prove necessary to scrap any of the fast patrol boats now in existence or the eleven still building. The best and most modern will be kept and the remainder sold. Inquiries have already been received from Commonwealth and N.A.T.O. countries.

Because of their comparatively restricted endurance, these craft would be less suitable than other vessels that could be made available for the duties described in the Persian Gulf and the Far East.