HC Deb 29 March 2004 vol 419 cc1142-3W
24. Richard Ottaway

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects the proposed new aircraft carriers to enter service. [163796]

Mr. Ingram

Our target in-service dates for the two new carriers remain as 2012 and 2015. Estimates for their delivery are being developed progressively during the remainder of the Assessment Phase, taking account of the maturing carrier design. Expected in-service dates will be confirmed when we agree the contracting arrangements for Demonstration and Manufacture.