§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the current vessels available for supporting amphibious operations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyThe Government are satisfied that the Royal Navy is fully capable of providing the support which amphibious operations currently require. In recognition of the importance of this area of operations in the current strategic environment however, the Government are currently making a sizeable investment in our capability in this field: the contract for the design and construction of a helicopter carrier was awarded on 11 May; project definition studies for the replacement of the assault ships HMS Fearless and HMS Intrepid are now nearing completion; and the invitation to tender for the refurbishment of the landing ship logistic Sir Bedivere was issued on 26 November 1993.