Thanks very much to Nutloose for the fascinating linked document that he provided.
Another Quote that caught my eye in the linked doc was from Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire:
"So from about 2006 the only fixed-wing aircraft which will be capable of embarking in the Invincible
class carriers will be the GR7s and we will maintain that capability until
the Joint Strike Fighter enters service with the two new big carriers in
around 2012".
This is from 2002 !!
Obviously we did not keep Harrier Gr7's in service until the new aircraft carrier(s) were available, but the F35 (JSF) is only being worked-up now in 2019.
IB