Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of recent changes to the UK’s amphibious capability, including a) the decommissioning or reduced availability of amphibious platforms, b) the effect on the UK’s ability to conduct independent or NATO amphibious operations, and c) any change in doctrine arising from these reductions on the UK's military capabilities.

The Royal Marines and UK Commando Forces (UKCF) are being transformed through the Littoral Strike/Commando Force programme which is tailored to UK and NATO requirements. The decommissioning of amphibious platforms reflects a planned transition towards a new generation of amphibious capabilities. Our focus is on delivering these new capabilities which are currently being considered through the Defence Investment Plan, and we do not anticipate any impact on the planned operational programme of UKCF during this time. The UK retains the ability to conduct independent operations and our commitment to NATO remains unchanged. Recent adjustments to amphibious capability have not altered the UK's doctrinal commitment to amphibious operations.