Written question asked by Sarah McCarthy-Fry (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 July 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 July 2008. It was answered by Bob Ainsworth (Labour) on Monday, 21 July 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Defence Maritime Strategy

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps his Department is taking to implement the defence maritime strategy.

Answer: We continue to make good progress in implementing the maritime element of the Defence Industrial Strategy.The formation of BVT Surface Fleet on 1 July, that brings together the shipyards at Portsmouth and on the Clyde under one management, and the signature of the contract to build the two Future Aircraft Carriers is a clear demonstration of this progress.The construction of the Carriers is a substantial boost to British industry and is expected to create or sustain 10,000 jobs across the UK at peak production, with around 1,000 jobs at each of the main shipyards. Along with the six T45 Destroyers, the Carriers will ensure a steady drumbeat of work in a shipyard for years to come.

Secondary information