HC Deb 23 May 1991 vol 191 c612W
Mr. O'Neill

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many type 23 frigates have been ordered from(a) Yarrow Shipbuilders and (b) Swan Hunter Shipbuilders.

Mr. Kenneth Carlisle

Six type 23 frigates have been ordered from Yarrow Shipbuilders and four from Swan Hunter Shipbuilders.

Mr. O'Neill

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he envisages placing any more orders for type 23 frigates; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Carlisle

I have nothing to add to my answer to the hon. and learned Member for Fife, North-East (Mr. Campbell) on 20 February at column192.

Mr. O'Neill

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the approximate dates on which he envisages accepting the nine type 23 frigates currently on order into service.

Mr. Kenneth Carlisle

Following the acceptance of HMS Marlborough on 7 March and HMS Argyll on 17 April 1991, there are now seven type 23 frigates on order. We expect all the remaining ships to enter service by the end of 1994.