To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the first plate of metal for each of the two new aircraft carriers will be cut. (227357)

The formal cutting of the first plate of metal for each of the new aircraft carriers corresponds with the start of production in the main shipyards, which is expected to commence in early 2009 for HMS Queen Elizabeth and mid-2010 for HMS Prince of Wales. However, long lead items, including steel, have been procured.