asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is the Admiralty's policy with regard to reconnaissance aircraft in the Indian Ocean.

I am sure my hon. and gallant Friend will realise that it is not in the public interest to give details of such policies.

If my right hon. Friend cannot give details, will he say whether it is proposed to carry it out with shore-based aircraft and if so, are there sufficient supplies of them?

I am afraid that I cannot add to my reply to the original Question.

Can I ask my right hon. Friend if it is his policy to retain flying-boats?