They managed to save the Tonkas and keep the Fisheads out of fixed wing, I am sure that they will be able to do the same with Merlin.
The sad thing is that in doing so the reputation of the RAF as an honest broker is being trashed and you, as a Service, are generally no longer trusted to tell the truth. People like CO JHC, CO MAA etc are not helping your cause one little bit.
The fact is maritime aviation from the sea is best done by maritime aviators (and I am including all elements from grubbers through aircrew to Wings of ships), the skillsets translate well to the battle ashore, but not necessarily vv.