§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much money will have to be spent at Rosyth dockyard to enable the refitting of aircraft carriers; and how much would need to be spent at Devonport dockyard to enable it to perform the same operation.
§ Mr. AitkenA continuing programme of capital expenditure on various items is envisaged at both Rosyth and Devonport which is not specifically related to refitting aircraft carriers. The existing facilities at Rosyth are suitable for refitting aircraft carriers, as are those at Devonport, without significant additional expenditure, but further discussions about precise requirements will take place with the dockyard operator well in advance of the first refit.