§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the future of Ark Royal.
§ Mr. HanleyAs we have previously made clear, the Royal Navy intends to maintain three Invincible class aircraft carriers, with two operational at any one time. In accordance with this long-standing practice, HMS Ark Royal will be placed in a state of extended readiness in the autumn. After a period of time in this state, she will, under current plans, be refitted and then returned to active service.