kintyred,
Speaking as a long term member of the light blue, I think you'll find that the 3 gentlemen in dark blue above have a far greater grasp and understanding of the importance of an MPA and what they bring to the party than any CAS who has run the RAF over the last 50 years. Even one tour on an ASW helo would provide that.
I think you'll also find the same of any senior RN officer with an SSN background. Fingers crossed, our latest man might have a better insight from his previous command of the maritime fleet but there is no doubt that the strongest supporters of the need for the UK to regain an MPA capability comes from the RN.