§ Mr. ViggersTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to place a contract for two auxiliary oilers; and if he will make a statement. [20345]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotWe will be placing a contract today with VSEL for the design and build of two fast fleet tankers, known as "Auxiliary Oilers (AO)", to replace the ageing "O" class fuel replenishment ships Olna and Olwen. The new ships will be called RFA Wave Knight and RFA Wave Ruler, and both are expected to enter service early in the next century. The vessels will be built at VSEL's shipyard in Barrow.
The order was won by VSEL in close competition with BAeSEMA, and the decision was based on what would provide the best value for money for the taxpayer. The new vessels will form part of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, manned by civilian crews, whose role is to support the Royal Navy in its operations world-wide. Their primary role will be to replenish the fleet at sea with petroleum, oils and lubricants, with secondary roles including disaster relief and replenishment of solid stores.
232WThe new ships will be built largely to commercial standards, with some military features, including a flight deck and hanger for one helicopter. The vessels will be built to meet Lloyd's and Marine Safety Agency standards and will be double-hulled to meet the latest international regulations in respect of oil pollution. They will also meet, or be easily adapted to meet, all foreseeable environment regulations.
The order will be worth more than £200 million to VSEL and its sub-contractors, and will help to sustain some 900 jobs. It has been warmly welcomed by the Royal Navy and the RFA, and is good news for the taxpayer, for Barrow, and the many sub-contractors who will be working on the project across the UK.