§ Mrs. Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the shiplift at Faslane will receive a full certification to lift a nuclear-powered submarine; and what alternative facilities are available for Vanguard class submarines.
§ Mr. AitkenFollowing the successful completion of a nuclear audit earlier this month, work continues to prepare the shiplift for full authorisation for use. This involves finalisation of operating procedures, analysis and operator training. The shiplift is needed for docking maintenance purposes and no directly equivalent facilities are available elsewhere.