asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether flying and service trials of the Wasp helicopter have been completed.

Development trials of the Wasp helicopter are well advanced. Intensive service trials started a fortnight ago.

Could the hon. Gentleman say when these trials are likely to be completed? Is it still the aim of the Admiralty to equip the Tribal Class frigates with them before Christmas?

Yes. So far as the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is concerned, I understand that intensive service trials take about three months to complete. It remains our intention to equip some of the Tribals with Wasp helicopters by the end of this year.

What is the cost of a Wasp?

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would put down a Question about that.