§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 7 February,Official Report, column 112, what further delay has arisen to the deployment of HMS Birmingham to the Adriatic as a result of the failure of her Sea Dart system; what are the operational implications for the carrier group of the continued detachment of HMS Coventry to embargo operations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyHMS Birmingham's departure for the Adriatic was delayed by a further six days because of problems relating to her Sea Dart missile system. HMS Coventry will continue to fulfil her Stanavforlant duties until HMS Birmingham's imminent arrival in theatre. HMS Coventry's continuing detachment has no operational implications for the carrier group as she would be released for national tasks if required.