asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the average yearly cost of the upkeep of each corvette during the last financial year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Upkeep of Corvettes.
The average yearly cost of the upkeep of a corvette during the year 1st January, 1952, to 31st December, 1952, was £37,100. This figure includes the pay and allowances of crews; the cost of fuel, dry-docking, repairs and technical maintenance and the cost of ammunition, provisions, clothing and barrack service equipment. It does not take into account the cost of initial training of crews and the upkeep of shore establishments or any administrative expenses.
In view of the very high cost of upkeep of these corvettes, will the Parliamentary Secretary see that they are put to some useful purpose by way of fishery protection around our coasts?
That is entirely a separate question.