§ Mr. ChurchillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when HMS Roebuck was commissioned; when she is to be decommissioned; what factors led to the decision to decommission her; what is to be the future strength of the Royal Navy's hydrographic service; what proportion of such ships is to be taken up from trade or newly constructed; and what decision has been taken as to where new orders are to be placed. [29552]
§ Mr. SoamesHMS Roebuck was commissioned on 3 October 1986. On current plans, she will be withdrawn from service around the end of the century, as the capability of the hydrographic service is upgraded with the introduction of new vessels. We envisage that the future hydrographic surveying squadron will comprise five survey vessels, including the new ocean survey vessel, HMS Scott, an order for which was placed in January. No decisions have yet been taken on the procurement of further vessels.