To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the most recent forecast dates are for (a) beginning of construction, (b) completion of construction, (c) completion of sea trials and (d) coming into service of the two new aircraft carriers. (211499)

Construction of the new aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, is currently scheduled to commence during 2008 and 2009 and to complete during 2014 and 2015 respectively. Completion of sea trials and entry into service, for each of the ships, will occur in 2014 and 2016 respectively.