Earl of Dalkeithasked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the longest single period of continuous sea time performed by H.M.S. "Eagle"; what was the nature of the operation; when any surface ship of the Royal Navy last exceeded this period; how many officers and men were involved; and 54W whether he will consider a special form of recognition of this service.
§ Mr. J. P. W. MallalieuDuring her surveillance of the Mozambique Channel H.M.S. "Eagle" spent 71 days continuously at sea. This has established a Royal Navy record for aircraft carriers in peace-time. Other classes of surface ship in the Royal Navy have probably at some time exceeded this period, but this could not be confirmed without considerable research. H.M.S. "Eagle" has a complement of 240 officers and 2,350 ratings. Her performance of this arduous task was in accordance with the highest standards expected of ships and aircraft of the Royal Navy.