HC Deb 15 November 1968 vol 773 cc160-1W
Mr. Speed

asked the Secretary of State for Defence, what he estimates to be the annual savings over the period 1971 to 1975 resulting from the decision to phase out the aircraft carrier force as soon as the withdrawal from Malaysia, Singapore and the Gulf has been completed.

Mr. Reynolds

The additional average annual saving on the remaining ships, helicopters and shore establishments will be about £12 million. Aircraft and equipment will be transferred to the R.A.F nd will continue to be operated in the maritime protection role.