HMS Coventry and HMS London.

HC Deb 22 January 2003 vol 398 cc325-6W

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made on the disposal of HMS Coventry and HMS London; and if he will make a statement. [90339]

Mr. Ingram

I can confirm that the Romanian Government have decided to acquire HMS Coventry and HMS London under Government-to-Government arrangements. The Acquisition Agreement was countersigned earlier last week by my noble Friend the Minister for Defence Procurement, Lord Bach, and the Romanian State Secretary for Armaments, Dr. Gheorge Matache. BAE Systems will act as the United Kingdom prime contractor.

The Romanian Navy will receive highly capable and NATO compatible warships to meet their operational requirements and provide increased security in the region.

It is fitting that having completed their service in the Royal Navy, the ships will continue their useful service with Romania, which has recently been invited to become a member of NATO.