HC Deb 17 February 1993 vol 219 cc249-50W
90. Sir Nicholas Bonsor

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the RNR sea training centre at HMS Graham, Glasgow is to close; at what annual savings; what is the current RNR strength; what was the rate of usage of HMS Dovey over the last full year for which figures are available; what plans he has for her future use; what seagoing alternatives are to be available for RNR volunteers from the west of Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

Subject to consultation with the trades unions, it is proposed that HMS Graham will close by 1 October 1993 with annual savings of £150,000. Its current Royal Naval Reserve strength is 90 officers and 200 ratings. The usage of HMS Dovery during the calendar year 1992 was as follows:

Days Per cent.
Time at Sea 75 20.5
Planned Maintenance 30 8.2
Unscheduled Maintenance 70 19.2
Harbour Training 22 6.0

Days Per cent.
Leave (RN personnel) 42 11.5
Berthed 126 34.6

Note: Total Distance Run–11,672 nautical miles

HMS Dovey will be transferred to the RNR headquarters unit, HMS Dalriada, Greenock. Arrangements have been made for RNR volunteers from the west coast of Scotland to conduct their sea training activities from HMS Dalriada.