§ 20. Mr. Nicholas BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the current naval procurement programme.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleWe currently have nine type 23 frigates on order and expect to invite tenders for the next batch within the next few months. Tenders for additional single role minehunters are being assessed; two auxiliary oiler replenishment vessels are under construction. The Government remain committed to a four-boat Trident force and we have just placed an order for the third Vanguard class submarine. The first Upholder class conventional submarine is undergoing final acceptance trials now and will be accepted into service very shortly. The Sea Harrier capability update and EH101 (Merlin) helicopter programmes are proceeding.