HC Deb 15 March 1993 vol 221 cc72-3W
Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the capacity of the troop accommodation on RFA Argus; and how many troops are currently being carried on the vessel.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

In addition to her normal ship's complement, RFA Argus's design provides for accommodation for a further 120 personnel. For limited periods, however, a much greater number can be accommodated, as has recently been required in the Adriatic. Circumstances have now allowed us to return the majority of those personnel to the United Kingdom. About 50 troops remain aboard, however, to help maintain the embarked equipment.

Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the RFA Argus first came into service.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

In 1988.

Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the normal complement of officers and men on RFA Argus.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The normal complement of RFA Argus is four officers, 13 senior ratings and 33 junior ratings (RN) and 25 officers, 12 senior ratings and 43 junior ratings (RFA).

Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many baths, showers, lavatories and urinals there are on RFA Argus; and how many portable lavatories are in use on the vessel.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

RFA Argus has 43 showers and 45 lavatories. Like most commercially-designed vessels, she does not have baths or urinals. Recently, additional portable showers and toilets were required because a substantial force of troops was embarked in the Adriatic. However, since the majority of the additonal personel have now returned to the United Kingdom, these facilities are no longer required.