§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is satisfied with the adequacy of the current provision for the defence of vessels of the Royal Navy from attack by long-range missiles launched from aircraft, especially when operating in the absence of air cover provided by HMS "Ark Royal" or land-based fighters.
§ Mr. JohnDefence against aircraft-launched missile attack is provided by162W ship-borne area and point defence missile systems, as well as by air cover from HMS "Ark Royal" and shore bases, and improvements are planned. I am satisfied that these arrangements are adequate.