John Elliott <...> said:

Timor Challenger is only on charter from her owners, not purchased by the
film crew.

Charter rate for such a vessel,on specialist duty possibly £6000-£9000 per day. The Ross Revenge, being a 'dead' ship,would have been difficult to operate,requiring tugs to move it etc. I rather think PM thought he might be able to get Working Title to put things right with the ship,bringing it to an acceptable Port State Control standard, for what was required for the film,thus potentially saving the film crew money on any time charter of another vessel. Thankfully the film crew went with their instincts and did the right thing.. ..and PM sent the bedroom heavy mob round to the guys doing the work at Shepperton;seeing that any wonga out of the deal was in their possession..hence the 'donation'. Regards,
Jim.