Written question asked by Julian Lewis (Conservative) on Friday, 14 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 November 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Thursday, 20 November 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether it is his intention that a reduction in the size of the two future aircraft carriers will lead to no diminution of military capability. - No final decisions have yet been taken on the main capability specifications for the Future Aircraft Carrier programme.

Answer: Dr. Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether it is his intention that a reduction in the size of the two future aircraft carriers will lead to no diminution of military capability. [139596] Mr. Ingram: No final decisions have yet been taken on the main capability specifications for the Future Aircraft Carrier programme, currently in its Assessment Phase. The intention, as with any other new equipment project, has always been to use the Assessment Phase to refine the design in order to best meet our capability requirements and to ensure value for money.

Secondary information