§ Mr. LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what studies his Department is involved in of the future role of the Army and Navy in the provision of air sea rescue services around the British Isles; and if he will make a statement. [138331]
§ Mr. Spellar[holding answer 14 November 2000]There are no studies in progress which are looking at the future role of the Army and Royal Navy in the provision of air sea rescue services around the British Isles.
§ Mr. LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his assessment is of the relative effectiveness of the different types of helicopters used in air sea rescue around the British Isles. [138330]
§ Mr. Spellar[holding answer 14 November 2000]I can only comment upon the military Search and Rescue helicopters operated by the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy, as the responsibility for civil SAR rests with other Government Departments.
668WThe military SAR force operates an all Sea King fleet within the British Isles and these aircraft are highly effective in carrying out this role.