§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what ports are currently being considered as possible locations for new Z-berths; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe Royal Navy's requirements for port visits by nuclear-powered submarines are continually under review. When a port appears suitable and practical, the safety considerations are discussed with local civil authorities. Swansea is at pesent under consideration as a possible location for a new Z-berth. My officials have also had preliminary discussions with the port and local authorities at Tilbury.
§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence why the port of Hull has been taken off the list of ports with approved Z-berths; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonAfter navigational problems had been encountered on two occasions, the Royal Navy reluctantly decided in 1985 to discontinue visits to Hull by Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarines.
§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the current and future status of the Z-berth in the port of Barry.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonUse of the Z-berth in Barry by royal naval nuclear-powered submarines has been discontinued temporarily because of difficulties in maintaining the water level at low tide. We understand that Associated British Ports intends to replace lock gates and modernise the berth's facilities in the near future; once this has been done the berth should again be suitable for use by nuclear-powered submarines.