Mine Counter-measure Vessels (Hansard, 27 February 1978)

HC Deb 27 February 1978 vol 945 cc90-1W 90W

§ Mr. Trotter
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what percentage the present number of mine counter-measure vessels represents the number of such vessels in the Royal Navy in 1958 and 1964; and 91W whether it is intended that the old minesweepers and hunters now in service shall be replaced on a one-for-one basis by the new Hunt class vessels.

§ Mr. Duffy
The number of MCMVs operational in 1978 expressed as a percentage of the number of MCMVs operational in 1958 and 1964 is approximately 65 per cent. and 56 per cent. respectively. Replacement of existing vessels will not be on a one-for-one basis as the Hunt class vessels will have a dual minesweeping/minehunting capability and represent a considerable increase in capability over the Ton class which they will replace.