Nuclear-Powered Submarines

Mr. John Morris
asked the Minister of State for Defence whether it is proposed to continue the current building programme of nuclear-powered submarines.

Mr. Kirk
I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given today to the right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr. Dell).

Mr. Dell
asked the Minister of State for Defence when he proposes to make a statement on the future nuclear-powered hunter/killer submarine building programme.

Mr. Kirk
The option to increase the rate of build of hunter/killer submarines remains open. The existing build programme will be maintained for the present  time and will be kept under review in the light of priorities within Fleet requirements.