ROYAL YACHT FOR DIAMOND JUBILEE

That this House notes that the former Royal Yacht Britannia played a major role inUK diplomacy and trade promotion, as well as providing suitable transport for Her Majesty The Queen on visits to Commonwealth and foreign nations; believes that a replacement Royal Yacht could play a valuable additional role for Sea Cadets and other youngsters for sail training and science projects; further notes that the UK is a premier builder of both motor and sailing vessels, exporting them all over the world; and calls on the Government to appoint a Minister to examine options, through sponsorship and donation, for producinga new Royal Yacht in this jubilee year, without recourse to public funds, as a tribute to Her Majesty, an asset for our overseas influence, an engine for exports and an opportunity for young people.