§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how long he expects HMS Nottingham to be out of service, and if he will make a statement. [70058]
§ Mr. IngramI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 15 July 2002,Official Report, column 26W, to the hon. Member for North Essex (Mr. Jenkin).
§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the damage to HMS Nottingham from collision with a rock off Australia. [69409]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 16 July 2002]The damage to Nottingham is severe. There has been extensive structural damage and flooding in the forward part of the ship. This has been controlled. She is in a safe, stable condition and is at anchor. Specialist teams are on board and they are continuing with their assessments. A further, more comprehensive survey of her structure and equipment will be necessary to determine the full extent of the damage.