A Soviet battleship threat keeps carrier weather limits relevant

Could the Soviets build battleships in response to the Lions?

Potentially; continued Soviet construction could also justify retaining British battleships because carrier operations remain limited by aircraft effectiveness and weather.

Soviet construction in response to the Lions could create a continuing reason to retain British battleships. Carrier aircraft must be capable of sinking the target, and weather must permit them to operate. Battleship guns can be used in a wider range of sea conditions than aircraft can be launched. Carriers can avoid conditions or areas that favor the enemy surface force if they identify the danger early enough. A continuing Soviet battleship threat would complicate a complete British withdrawal from battleship service.