§ Mr. Robert Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to make a statement about possible replacements for HMS Intrepid and HMS Fearless.
§ Mr. LeeAs my hon. Friend the Minister of State for the Armed Forces said during the navy debate on 28 November 1983 at column 451, we plan to maintain HMS Fearless and HMS Intrepid in service for the foreseeable future. We are, however, currently examining the provision of future amphibious capability once the ships come to the end of their planned lives.