§ Sir Ian Orr-Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what aircraft he is planning to use for airborne early warning for the protection of Royal Navy and merchant ships after the carriers are phased out at the end of 1971.
§ Mr. Healey:Shackleton Mk 2 aircraft are being converted to take over the maritime airborne early warning rôle when the carriers phase out in their present rôle. The Shackleton's range and proven endurance makes it particularly suitable for this task.