§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the roll-on roll-off ferries that are to be bought for the joint rapid deployment force, announced on 26 March, will be manned by British seafarers; and if he will make a statement. [25479]
§ Mr. SoamesNo decision has yet been reached on the most appropriate manning arrangements for the roll-on roll-off ferries to support the joint rapid deployment force. An announcement will be made in the summer, once all relevant factors have been properly weighed.