§ 41. Rear-Admiral Morgan-Gilesasked the Secretary of State for Defence when he will place the contract for the building of the new Command cruiser; in which year he estimates that the ship will be completed; what functions she is designed to fulfil: what is to be her approximate total complement of officers and men: and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Healey:The new cruiser is being designed to provide capabilities for the deployment of anti-submarine helicopters, command and control of naval and maritime air forces, and a contribution to area air defence. Its construction will provide the option of operating V/STOL aircraft. It will be powered by gas turbine propulsion, provided with a through deck, and armed with Sea Dart. Design assistance contracts should be placed shortly. It is not normal practice to give the more detailed information requested about building dates or ship characteristics at this stage.