HC Deb 12 February 2001 vol 363 cc16-7
13. Mrs. Linda Gilroy (Plymouth, Sutton)

What progress he has made with enhancing front-line equipment for the Royal Navy. [148230]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence (Dr. Lewis Moonie)

We have under way the largest warship programme for many years. This includes the type 45 destroyer equipped with the principal anti-air missile system; new aircraft carriers with new carrier-borne aircraft and airborne early-warning aircraft; Astute class submarines; new amphibious support ships; and multi-role survey vessels. The Royal Navy will also be supported with new roll on/roll off vessels and new auxiliary oilers. This is just part of a huge programme of modernisation that, I am happy to say, is progressing well.

Mrs. Gilroy

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Will he confirm that the Government's plans to procure two new larger aircraft carriers for the Royal Navy will not be affected by the outcome of the general election?

Dr. Moonie

Given the performance of the Opposition, I do not think that that will be a problem.

Mr. David Chidgey (Eastleigh)

Does the Minister recall saying a few moments ago that the Government believed in competition within the warship-building industry? Does he not realise that when the Secretary of State announced fair and equal shares in the type 45 programme last year, that in itself persuaded Vosper Thornycroft to share its commercial and engineering techniques with the big players? As a result, it is subject to predatory pricing and is likely to be driven out of the marketplace, which would be a loss to warship building and to the country's economy? What does the Minister have to say about honouring the pledges made in the House to protect smaller players from predatory pricing?

Dr. Moonie

There has been no change to date in our policy, which is to conduct a procurement exercise involving both yards, under the direction of the prime contractor. That remains the policy.

Mr. Lindsay Hoyle (Chorley)

Will my hon. Friend ensure that future large aircraft carriers will be capable of operating Eurofighter, as that will ensure that we have a seaworthy—or rather, sea-going—version of Eurofighter, which will benefit jobs in the north-west?

Dr. Moonie

The decision on the further development of Eurofighter has not yet been taken. I am sure that my hon. Friend is well aware that we are committed to supporting the early stages of development of the joint strike fighter, which promises to be a most exciting and effective aircraft.

Mr. Desmond Swayne (New Forest, West)

Will any royal naval fleet submarines be decommissioned earlier than planned?

Dr. Moonie

No.