Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the expected delivery date of the 12 next-generation SSN-B nuclear powered submarines.

As set out in the Defence Investment Plan, we will procure up to 12 next-generation SSN-AUKUS nuclear powered, conventionally armed attack submarines.

On current plans, we will cut steel on the first SSN-AUKUS submarine

next year, with the aim to deliver the first UK submarine into service in the 2030s.

I hope the Hon Gentleman will understand that the planned in-service dates for Royal Navy submarines are withheld as disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness, or security of the Armed Forces.