More frigates require a delivery and funding plan

What does the panel think of the Liberal Democrat proposal for six additional frigates?

More frigates are welcomed, but the proposal is judged incomplete without a credible funding and construction plan.

A larger frigate fleet is welcomed, but confidence in the proposal depends on how it would be funded and delivered. Dr. Clarke invokes the Liberal Democrats' role in the 2010 government as a reason for scepticism. His criticism extends to other parties that announce defence ambitions before explaining the means. He recalls questioning several parties about missing delivery details in their defence proposals. This is a political assessment of credibility, with construction schedules and funding treated as necessary counterparts to the headline ship count.