Written question asked by Willie Rennie (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 June 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 June 2007. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Thursday, 21 June 2007 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Aircraft Carriers: Procurement

Question: (2) what talks have taken place with members of the aircraft carrier alliance on the involvement of France in the construction of the proposed two new aircraft carriers for the UK;

Answer: [holding answers 18 June 2007]: We have always stressed that co-operation with France through industry-to-industry links may offer potential benefits to both nations. This was covered most recently when my noble Friend the Minister of State for Defence Equipment and Support, Lord Drayson met with the Trade Unions and the Aircraft Carrier Alliance Chief Executive last month. It has been agreed with France that for co-operation to work, it must deliver cost savings and must do so without delaying UK or French programmes.

Secondary information