HC Deb 25 January 1979 vol 961 cc239-40W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the total expenditure in 1976, 1977 and 1978 on refitting yachts in the Armed Services.

Dr. Gilbert

This information is not readily available, but I shall write to my hon. Friend.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the total expenditure on new and secondhand yachts for 1976, 1977 and 1978 by the Armed Services.

Dr. Gilbert

In the years 1976, 1977 and 1978 a total of £54,000 was spent on the purchase of new yachts, which are used for training purposes. No secondhand yachts were purchased during the period.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many Service men are employed as boat keepers on yachts and small craft in the Armed Services.

Dr. Gilbert

Six Service men are employed full time on boat-keeping tasks on yachts and other sailing craft. Another two posts are at present unfilled. Other Service men do occasional or part-time work of this nature.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will give the number of yachts belonging to the Armed Services which are registered with Lloyd's.

Dr. Gilbert

34 yachts are currently listed, although two of these have since been sold.