§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the estmated cost of the conversion of the container ship Astronomer at Cammel Laird, Birkenhead, into a mini aircraft carrier.
§ Mr. LeeMV Astronomer is being converted into a support ship with a similar helicopter carrying capacity to the Fort class of Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships. Fitting the Astronomer for its new role will cost about £14 millions, of which £8.7 millions is in respect of helicopter support equipment, communications and other removable items, which could be used elsewhere.