§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what action has been taken to enhance strategic lift by(a) securing additional roll on/roll off container ships and (b) purchasing additional large transport aircraft; and if he will make a statement. [69097]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 11 July 2002]As I announced on 27 June 2002,Official Report, column 1038W, an enhanced sealift capability of up to six roll on/roll off ships will be available from 2003 under PFI arrangements agreed with AWSR Shipping Ltd. Our strategic airlift capability has been enhanced by the acquisition of Hercules C130J aircraft and leased C-17s. We also plan to introduce around the end of the decade the A400M transport aircraft, the contract for which we are working to make effective at the earliest opportunity.