Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether an Astute Class submarine is undergoing a refit or maintenance.

There are four Trafalgar Class and three Astute Class submarines currently in service at various stages of their operating cycle. Attack submarines are operationally capable and ready, and our submarines are meeting their operational taskings.

It is UK policy that we do not comment on matters relating to submarine activity or operations.

The normal operating cycle of every submarine includes periods at reduced levels of readiness to enable maintenance and training programmes, and to allow Service personnel to have time with their families.

HMS Ambush is undergoing repairs at Her Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde.