§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Rossendale (Mr. Trippier) on 8 March, Official Report, column 327, what plans exist for the eventual replacement of HMS "Fearless" and HMS "Intrepid", in view of the fact that these vessels are now 16 and 15 years old respectively.
§ Mr. NottHMS "Fearless" and HMS "Intrepid" are expected to remain in service for the foreseeable future. The need to consider their replacement will not, therefore, arise for some time.