§ Mr. McFallTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his discussions with the Canadian authorities concerning the leasing of Upholder class submarines to Canada in exchange for free British armed forces access to training areas in Canada. [29093]
§ Mr. FreemanSince the Ministry of Defence's decision in 1993, announced in Cm 2270, to withdraw the four Upholder class submarines from RN service, the Defence Export Services Organisation has offered the submarines for sale or lease to friendly or allied countries. DESO is currently in discussion with the Canadian Government and a number of options regarding price, the methods of payment and means of transfer are being considered, but no decisions have been taken.