Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what consideration has been given to(a) closing down and (b) reducing the size of Portland naval base as a result of the "Options for Change" study;
(2) if he will make a statement on the future of Portland naval base:
(3) what assessment has been made of the future strategic requirements for the capabilities of Portland naval base.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonOur assessment of the continued requirement for the Portland naval base, as with all other parts of the naval estate, will depend on forthcoming decisions on the future support and management of the RN as part of the work on "Options for Change". The Government will announce their intentions as soon as these considerations are completed.
Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current number of(a) service and (b) civilian personnel stationed at Portland naval base.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThere are currently 506 service personnel and 710 civilians employed at the Portland naval base complex, which includes the naval air station HMS Osprey.