To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consideration his Department is giving to further orders for Astute class submarines; and when he expects such considerations to be completed. (140999)

Three Astute class submarines are on order with BAES (Submarine Solutions). I also refer my hon. Friend to my written ministerial statement of 21 May 2007, Official Report, columns 55-56WS, which confirmed the build of a fourth boat.

Further boat orders are being considered, subject to affordability. We are working with industry as part of the Defence Industrial Strategy to achieve an affordable and sustainable submarine programme.