§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to reduce the complement of Type 42 destroyers by refitting with less manpower-intensive equipment; and if he will make a statement. [27883]
§ Dr. ReidThere are no plans to reduce the complement of Type 42 destroyers by refitting with less manpower-intensive equipment. Manning implications are taken into consideration when the Operational Requirement for future ships is considered; however, the size of the complement is affected by other factors such as the manpower needed for damage control and fire-fighting.