§ Captain Kerbyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what further reductions he envisages in the near future in the number of Her Majesty's Ships in reserve; whether the reorganisation of the reserve ships groupings now taking place will result in any economies; and if he is satisfied that there are sufficient ships in reserve to provide a realistic support for the active fleet.
§ Mr. J. P. W. MallalieuI do not envisage any reduction in the near future. The present reorganisation is meant to concentrate our reserve ships, not to run them down or save staff, and we are keeping enough to maintain the active fleet at its proper strength.