HC Deb 06 December 1982 vol 33 cc407-8W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the answer of 22 November, Official Report, c. 365, why no destination was specified by the master of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" in his announcement to the crew on 29 March.

Mr. Blaker

For reasons of security, given the circumstances outlined by my right hon. Friend in his letter to the hon. Member of 22 November and which has since been published in theOfficial Report.—[Vol. 33, c. 99–100.]

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" sailed from Gibraltar fully loaded.

Mr. Blaker

No.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" replenished HMS "Endurance".

Mr. Blaker

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given in reply to his question on 29 November.—[Vol. 33, c.99.]

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" replenished HMS "Endurance" at sea or in port.

Mr. Blaker

At sea.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" carried fuel in drums during her deployment in the South Atlantic.

Mr. Blaker

No.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" routinely carries a Sea King helicopter; and whether she possesses a hangar.

Mr. Blaker

Yes.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin's" total fuel capacity.

Mr. Blaker

2,000 cubic metres.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" is equipped to carry out replenishment at sea using fuel from her own tanks.

Mr. Blaker

No.