§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what was the outcome of his review of the location of search and rescue helicopters on the south coast; and if he will make a statement. [7847]
§ Mr. BowisWe have concluded that the current basing arrangements for coastguard search and rescue—SAR—helicopters on the south coast should continue. The 659W current temporary arrangements for the Portland helicopter will be replaced with a five-year contract for an upgraded all-weather aircraft. The arrangements for the helicopter based at Lee-on-Solent will continue unchanged.
Our conclusions are based upon the results of consultation with interested parties on national requirements for SAR helicopters and an analysis of the use of helicopters in SAR incidents on the south coast and English channel.
In addition, we are taking forward the recommendations of the interdepartmental review on SAR helicopters through the auspices of the newly formed joint advisory board for SAR provision.