§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reason the Royal Navy LR5 submersible rescue vessel deployed to rescue the Kursk submarine did not proceed with the operation; and if he will make a statement. [140909]
§ Mr. HoonThe Royal Navy Submarine Search and Rescue Service, which includes the rescue submersible LR5, was deployed to the Barents Sea in support of a major operation assembled by the Russians to rescue the crew of the submarine Kursk. Overall command of this operation remained at all times in Russian hands. The decision on whether or not to deploy the LR5 depended on an inspection of the Kursk by specialist Norwegian divers. Tragically, following that inspection, the Russian authorities confirmed that all on board the Kursk had died. The LR5 was not therefore required and the Royal Navy Submarine Search and Rescue Service was withdrawn.