Search and Rescue

HC Deb 01 February 1994 vol 236 cc667-8W

Mr. Ainger

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to alter the numbers of search-and-rescue helicopters based at the royal naval bases at(a) Portland and (b) Culdrose.

Mr. Hanley

There are no current plans to alter the numbers of search and rescue helicopters at the royal naval air stations at Portland and Culdrose.

Mr. Ainger

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current number of SAR helicopters based at the royal naval bases at(a) Portland and (b) Culdrose.

Mr. Hanley

Currently, three of the Sea King Mk4 helicopters held at the royal naval air station Portland are equipped for search and rescue operations. One duty aircraft provides day time cover with another held on standby. The royal naval air station Culdrose has a squadron of five Sea King Mks helicopters, all of which are capable of search and rescue operations. One aircraft is on duty at all times while another is held on standby.