HC Deb 21 March 1996 vol 274 c284W
Mr. Jamieson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the four Upholder class submarines currently at Barrow-in-Furness; and if he will make a statement on the steps he is taking to ensure that their disposal represents the best value for money to public funds. [22022]

Mr. Arbuthnot

The four Upholder class submarines are currently being marketed for sale or lease to a number of friendly countries. The cost of marketing is regularly assessed against the likely return to Her Majesty's Government to ensure that it is cost-effective.

Mr. Jamieson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about negotiations with foreign countries with which his Department is involved with regard to disposal of the four Upholder class submarines. [22023]

Mr. Arbuthnot

My Department is currently engaged in negotiations with the Governments of several friendly nations interested in acquiring the Upholder class submarines.