HC Deb 22 June 1961 vol 642 c168W
97. Mr. Willis

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty why Her Majesty's Government have sold two frigates to the Portuguese Government; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Two frigates have been sold to the Portuguese Government in accordance with Her Majesty's Government's policy of assisting friendly navies by selling ships to them which the Royal Navy may have for disposal. In the years immediately after the war 12 such vessels were similarly sold. Portugal, a N.A.T.O. ally, requires the two ships as replacements for two declared for scrapping.