Could carrier air cover reduce convoy escort demand?

Could scout carriers reduce the need for additional convoy escorts?

Yes. Their aircraft could find U-boats farther away, while carrier fighters could intercept Condors before they reported convoy positions.

Scout carriers could reduce pressure on escort production by finding submarines farther from the convoy. Radar and embarked fighters would also threaten the Condors used to help wolf packs locate their targets. Interception before a Condor reported the convoy would weaken German reconnaissance. Reduced convoy losses would protect supplies needed by the wider British economy.