§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to commission the construction of a fisheries research vessel; and if he will make a statement. [128488]
§ Mr. MorleyA decision was taken in October 1997 to replace MAFF's oldest fisheries research vessel, RV Cirolana, which is used to collect essential data on the state of fish stocks and the marine environment. A comprehensive business case explored all options, including the Private Finance Initiative and the consequences of not replacing the ship. Investment in a new vessel was agreed as a priority in the 1998 Comprehensive Spending Review, and the procurement process is under way.
In accordance with EU procurement rules, expressions of interest in the contract to construct the new vessel have been invited, and the responses will be evaluated in order to identify a short list of bidders who will be given the opportunity to tender for the contract. The planned schedule allows for negotiation and award of a construction contract by the end of December 2000. The vessel is expected to be ready for service in March 2003.