§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for a future offshore patrol642W vessel for the Royal Navy; when he will place an order for Type 45 destroyers; and which Royal Navy ships will participate in Exercise Saif Sareea II. [140220]
§ Mr. Hoon[holding answer 24 November 2000]: We are currently examining whether our requirement for offshore patrol vessels could be provided more cost effectively through leasing or other innovative arrangements. To that end, initial expressions of interest have been sought from industry and the response is being considered.
As I announced on 11 June 2000, Official Report, columns 701–02, we expect to place a contract with BAE Systems for the construction of the first three Type 45 Destroyers by the end of this year.
Saif Sareea II will involve a Naval Task Force, led by HMS Illustrious, of up to 24 Royal Navy vessels and support ships. Its composition has yet to be finalised.