§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the status is of the missile test firing barge at Brixham; and how much has been spent in berthing fees in each of the past three years. [138242]
§ Mr. SpellarThe missile test barge Longbow, previously used for Sea Wolf trials, has been moored at Brixham pending its conversion for use in missile firing trials for the Principal Anti Air Missile System (PAAMS) Programme. Berthing fees paid during 1997–98, 1998–99 and 1999–2000 were £23,824, £24,734 and £25,834 respectively. It has been more cost-effective to retain Longbow than arrange for its disposal and then458W have to purchase anew for the PAAMS Programme. The barge is now expected to be handed over to the PAAMS contractor in 2002.