The Wiki page about the Harrier cites a reference for their comment as being the March edition of Air Forces Monthly magazine, page 5.
I have found a reference on BritModeller forum (?
) that 9s & 9As might be used to replace a couple of D Hornet squadrons, whilst the 7s & 7As would be cannabilised.
I haven't found anything on the USMC news sites.
I wonder if GreenKnight has heard anything?