§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received on his Department's policy towards the maintenance of a 50-ship fleet.
§ Mr. Ian StewartMy colleagues and I have received 13 letters from hon. Members and others on this subject since the beginning of the year.
§ Mr. AllasonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much of the Royal Navy's surface fleet is truly operational; and how many ships are currently undergoing sea trials and refits.
§ Mr. Ian StewartThere are currently 126 ships in the surface fleet that are operational or engaged in preparing for service or trials or training. All these ships can be made available for operational deployment immediately or within a short period. In addition there are 17 ships in refit or on standby.