HC Deb 25 May 1995 vol 260 cc659-60W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which company is responsible for the maintenance and support of the Nimrod aircraft which crashed off the coast of Scotland on 16 May; when the contract with the company commenced; how many of his Department's aircraft are maintained by this company; who was responsible for the maintenance and support of the Nimrod aircraft before this contract came into force; and if he will list the dates and circumstances of any previous accidents involving Nimrod aircraft in the last five years. [26090]

Mr. Soames

Maintenance and servicing of RAF Nimrod aircraft is currently undertaken by RAF personnel at the Nimrod major servicing unit at RAF Kinloss. As a result of the "Competing for Quality" initiative, the work of the NMSU has been market tested and FRA Serco will assume responsibility for Nimrod servicing next month.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the conclusion of the investigation into the recent crash off Scotland of a Nimrod aircraft; if he will place a copy of the report in the Library; and if he will make a statement. [26126]

Mr. Soames

A RAF board of inquiry was convened immediately after the accident; it is not, however, expected to report for some time. A copy of the summary of the inquiry's findings will be placed in the Library of the House.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the base of the Nimrod which recently crashed off the Scottish coast; what operational duties it was carrying out at the time of the crash; and how many crew were on board the aircraft. [26089]

Mr. Soames

The Nimrod aircraft which ditched in the Moray firth on 16 May 1995 was based at RAF Waddington. It was engaged in a post-servicing air test. A total of seven crew were on board.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Nimrod maritime patrol aircraft his Department possesses; what was the total cost of purchase of the aircraft; and where the aircraft are stationed. [26125]

Mr. Freeman

There are 26 operational Nimrod MR2 aircraft, including two in use reserves plus four spares. All are stationed at RAF Kinloss. The original total cost of these aircraft is not readily available and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.