HC Deb 22 November 1982 vol 32 cc363-4W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what information was given to the crew of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" on 28 March relating to the vessel's future movements.

Mr. Wiggin

None.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what information was given to the crew of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" on 29 March relating to the vessel's future movements.

Mr. Wiggin

The crew was informed by the Master that the ship would not be returning to the United Kingdom but her destination was not specified.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what additional equipment was fitted in, and preparations made for, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary " Fort Austin" at Gibraltar after her return from the weather conditions of the Persian Gulf in order to fit her for service in the South Atlantic in winter.

Mr. Wiggin

The "Fort Austin", in common with other vessels of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, is designed and equipped to support ships of the Royal Navy wherever they may be.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence on what date the Royal Fleet Auxiliary "Fort Austin" arrived at Gibraltar prior to her departure from there on 29 March; and what factors determined the length of her stay in port.

Mr. Wiggin

RFA "Fort Austin" arrived at Gibraltar on 19 March in connection with routine exercises in the area. She left when required to deploy to the South Atlantic.