Alternatives to frigates

Press, 24 August 1988, Page 20

Alternatives to frigates

Sir, —The Government proposes to spend about S2B on the purchase of four frigates and a further S2B on their maintenance, etc. This at a time when we are told that there are not the

funds available to defend the economy or health Of the nation. The greatest threat we face at present is the economic might of Asia. While Asian Governments are pouring funds into subsidising research and development our Government is dismantling such programmes. Programmes for cervical cancer detection, motorway median barriers, medical research, etc., are being stalled by lack of funds. I suggest that the Government defend the nation by not proceeding with the frigate purchase and immediately establishing a fund of S4B for stimulation of science, technology, education and the arts. In this way we will have some hope of meeting the economic threat we face and making this country worth defending. Let us hope that the Government will give some real leadership appropriate to the 1990 s and not the 19405. — Yours, etc., B. G. WYBOURNE. August 20, 1988.