§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the average period availability of Type 22 frigates for operational service in each of the last five years. [27386]
§ Dr. ReidType 22 frigates achieved approximately 82 to 86 per cent. average availability for operational service in each of the last five years. This discounts time spent in planned maintenance.
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§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to refit Type 22 frigates with less manpower-intensive equipment; and if he will make a statement. [27364]
§ Dr. ReidThere are no plans to specifically refit Type 22 frigates with less manpower-intensive equipment. The installation of new or updated equipments on all vessels, including Type 22 frigates, is made to address issues of obsolescence, achieve improved reliability or provide enhanced operational capability.
§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what crew complement Type 22 frigates carried when first commissioned; and what complement they now carry. [27363]
§ Dr. ReidThe Type 22 frigate was introduced in three Batches. When first commissioned the complement of crew carried by a Batch 1 Type 22 frigate was 229. The current complement has increased slightly to 243 on the latest Batch.