HMS Daedalus

HC Deb 12 July 2001 vol 371 cc585-6W

Mr. Hoban

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the future of HMS Daedalus. [3636]

Dr. Moonie

It is expected that a decision on the future of HMS Daedalus will be made within the next few weeks. At that stage I will write to the hon. Member and all other MPs and stakeholders to inform them of the way forward.

Mr. Hoban

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received from outside bodies about the future of HMS Daedalus. [3635]

Dr. Moonie

Many representations have been received from a wide range of statutory and commercial outside bodies and local interest groups, including those tenants currently residing on the airfield. Much of the commercial interest was generated through our agent's marketing campaign and subsequent referrals.

Defence Estate, through the Daedalus Working Group, has always endeavoured to keep Gosport borough council, Fareham borough council and Hampshire county council informed of developments.