HL Deb 21 October 2004 vol 665 cc89-90WA
Lord Astor of Hever

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What consideration has been given to the possibility of landing a C-1305 on the future aircraft carrier. [HL4175]

Lord Bach

We have no requirement for landing C-130 aircraft on the future carrier (CVF).

Lord Astor of Hever

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What further stages they envisage will be required in order to complete the construction and delivery programme for the new aircraft carriers; what timetable they have set for the completion of each stage; and what discussions they are undertaking with industry as to the practicability of the consequent timings. [HL4428]

Lord Bach

We announced the extension to the assessment phase of the future aircraft carrier (CVF) programme and the agreement of the alliance principles with BAe systems and Thales UK on 19 July 2004 (Official Report, cols. WS3–4). Positive discussions with industry are ongoing to agree the detailed alliance arrangements and we are also drawing up a comprehesive plan for the CVF programme through to delivery, which will include the construction of the vessels. Our target in-service dates (ISD) remain 2012 and 2015. The main investment decision for the demonstration and manufacture phases is planned for 2005.