§ Mr. SnapeTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list all the dates of port calls by Royal Naval vessels to foreign ports in 1987, 1988 and 1989; and what are the dates of planned port calls up to 1990.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonIt is not our normal practice to disclose planned port visits by Royal Navy vessels, but I will write to the hon. Member about the first part of his question.
§ Mr. SnapeTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what importance the Government attach to visits by Royal Naval vessels to foreign ports; and what is the Government's policy regarding port calls.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe Government attach great importance to visits to foreign ports by Her Majesty's ships. Port calls help to forge and maintain links with other countries and navies and, by providing opportunities for rest and recreation, play a prominent part in maintaining crew morale. Visits are also made for operational reasons, such as to take on supplies and fuel, and can offer opportunities to display British technology which can be of direct benefit to United Kingdom industry.
It is our policy to encourage Royal Navy visits to foreign ports and, where appropriate, to reciprocate by welcoming foreign naval vessels to United Kingdom ports.