asked Her Majesty's Government:
When they expect to let contracts for fleet tankers to replace the currently serving Royal Fleet Auxiliary tankers under the Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability programme. [HL4912]
The main investment decision for the fleet tanker element of the Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability (MARS) programme is currently expected to be made during 2009. A contract will be placed with industry after that decision has been taken.