§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what primary casualty receiving facilities have been provided on each of the Fort class RFAs; how many beds are provided; and what medical personnel serve on these ships. [26679]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 11 January 2002]: All Fort class Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ships carry primary health care medical personnel, who would usually consist of a civilian Medical Officer and/or a Medical Assistant. RFA Fort George was fitted with a surgical capability during 2001 and has 12 beds. The primary health care medical personnel would be augmented, when necessary, by a surgical team and supporting medical and nursing personnel. RFA Fort Victoria is due to be fitted with the same surgical capability during 2002.