§ Mr. SpellerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make it his policy to order Sea King helicopters to replace or supplement older helicopters in the search and rescue role; and when he will announce his decision on replacement search and rescue aircraft.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkAlthough the Wessex continues to make a valuable contribution to the search and rescue service, we are examining the case for its replacement as part of the MOD's normal equipment planning process. An announcement will be made once a decision is taken.