§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the role and responsibilities of the flag officer royal yachts.
§ Mr. HanleyFlag officer royal yachts—FORY—is both an independent fleet flag officer and the commanding officer of HM yacht Britannia. He is generally accountable, as a member of the royal household, to Sir Robert Fellowes, private secretary to Her Majesty the Queen. He is responsible for Britannia's safe and efficient operation at all times and for the detailed planning of her programme keeping First Sea Lord and Commander in Chief, Fleet informed. He acts as the host at official receptions on behalf of the Queen when Britannia visits countries when no member of the royal family is embarked, and also hosts receptions on behalf of the Queen during sea days or commercial seminars held on board in support of British industry. These events bring FORY into direct and frequent contact with Heads of State and Government, and captains of industry.
172WIn addition, he also exercises tactical control over RN, Commonwealth and foreign warships and RFAs forming the Royal Squadron when the Queen or other members of the royal family are embarked.