§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to be in a position to place an order for the replacement of HMS Endurance.
§ Mr. SainsburyThere is no need to take a decision yet on the replacement of HMS Endurance. She underwent an extensive refit in 1986 which will give her an economic life extending into the mid-90s. Our plans beyond then will be kept under review in the light of developments in the Antarctic.