I can see the discussion at MOD:
"Right First Sea Lord, we agree that your case for the MRA4 is valid. Which of your toys are you going to give up to retain it?"
Do ships have pedals?
If so, do they go backwards?
Would it not be prude to share operations with the Navy on this one, there experience of shipping would be an ideal asset onboard a long range maratine aircraft. It would show willingness to join together and conduct a joint force, with enough spin on it you could say its the future and saving money. Just a thought really