§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the present naval defence of the United Kingdom in the light of the growth of the Soviet Navy.
§ Mr. SpeedThe Royal Navy, which is Western Europe's largest, plays its full part in NATO's response to the Soviet Navy. A continuous programme of re-equipment is also in hand to enhance our capability in a number of fields. Vessels on order include ASW ships of the 649W "Invincible" class; type 42 destroyers; type 22 frigates; nuclear-powered fleet submarines; and mine counter-measures vessels.