While there are no plans to recover the Lancaster bomber of 617 Squadron located in Sweden, I understand that the wreckage is monitored and cared for by the Porjus Arkivkommitté, the local Swedish Archival Committee.

The aircraft is in poor condition, and any recovery attempt would require considerable time and funds. However, the Porjus Arkivkommitté have put in place a walking trail and signage around the site for those wishing to visit, so that they may learn about the history of the Lancaster bomber raids and her crew.

The Royal Air Force pays tribute to the sacrifice and courage of Bomber Command by keeping a Lancaster flying on the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) and by preservation of a Lancaster in the National Collection within the Royal Air Force Museum.

My Lords, the strategic defence review is well under way and has been considering all aspects of defence, including the capabilities required by UK defence to meet the challenges, threats and opportunities of the 21st century. The recently announced accelerated programme to increase defence spending is considered a critical step in realising the review's ambition to transform our Armed Forces for this new era. The review will place NATO first and strengthen our alliances and partnerships while making defence central to the security, economic growth and prosperity of the United Kingdom.