§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current operational status of(a) HMS Fearless and (b) HMS Intrepid; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyHMS Fearless is fully operational, having completed a period of programmed maintenance earlier this year. HMS Intrepid is currently held in a state of extended readiness at Portsmouth. As such she has a reduced ship's crew, and some systems have been placed in preservation. She remains in commission, however, and could be brought forward for operations if an emergency arose.