HMS Bulwark

HC Deb 17 July 2003 vol 409 c483W

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when HMS Bulwark will be operational. [125618]

Mr. Ingram

On the basis of current information, it is expected that HMS Bulwark will enter service with the Royal Navy towards the end of next year and be available for operational deployment in the spring of 2005. However, the programme for completion of HMS Bulwark is yet to be finalised with the contractor, BAE Systems. When dates are confirmed, I will write to the hon. Member and place a copy of my reply in the Library of the House.