There has been a letter from the PM, in answer to a PMQ session pre Christmas, confirming that the RAF Merlins will indeed be going to CHF and the FAA.
Perhaps I can be of some assistance....(I always keep copies!)
Transcript of letter to Mr Edward Leigh MP dated 21 Dec 2010:
Dear Edward
At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday 15 December I said that I would look into the point you raised about the transfer of Merlin Helicopters from the Royal Air Force to the Royal Navy.
I can confirm that it remains our intention to transfer 25 Merlin Mk 3/3a helicopters from the RAF to the Navy over the next few years. They will replace the Sea King Mk 4 helicopters which presently form part of the Royal Navy’s Commando Helicopter Force. They will be based at RNAS Yeovilton.
It is planned that these helicopters will be replaced in their present role with the Royal Air Force by new Chinook helicopters.
Yours David
Take care.