§ 27. Sir Anthony Royleasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many fast patrol boats have been ordered by the Hong Kong Government from British Shipbuilders; when these boats are due for delivery; what was the original estimated price for each boat and the date it was quoted; what is the current estimated cost, estimated delivery date and cost; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SpeedThe five Hong Kong patrol craft, which are to replace the 5-ton class mine countermeasures vessels588W currently deployed in Hong Kong, have not yet been ordered. Tenders from interested shipbuilders are being evaluated and the Hong Kong authorities consulted. I expect a decision to order will be taken in the next few months. The boats will be ordered by the Ministry of Defence, not the Hong Kong Government, but the Hong Kong Government will bear 75 per cent. of the purchase costs. Delivery is expected during 1983 and 1984.
The original estimated cost, approved by the Hong Kong Government in December 1978, was approximately £6 million per vessel at September 1978 prices—inclusive of weapons systems and equipments to be fitted to the craft. At this stage, I cannot quote the current estimated cost as this could prejudice the outcome of the tender exercise now under way.