§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what make of tank transporter was being used to transport the Scimitar armoured vehicles involved in the accident on the M1 on 11 June; and whether this vehicle was owned by his Department. [120878]
§ Mr. IngramThe vehicle being used was not a tank transporter and was not owned by the Ministry of Defence. It was a commercially operated tractor and flat-bed trailer combination, contracted by the Department, specifically for the move from Marchwood to Catterick.
The armoured vehicles being moved comprised two Spartan and one Samaritan Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked).
§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his policy is on the number of armoured vehicles that can be carried safely by(a) individual heavy goods vehicles and (b) specialised tank transporters; and what advice is given to personnel and contractors. [120879]
§ Mr. IngramWhen a commercial road haulier is tasked to move armoured vehicles, the company is provided with details of their numbers, type and weight. The contractor is then responsible for determining the appropriate number of large goods vehicles required and must operate under Road Vehicle regulations.
Where Army specialist tank transporters are used, the unit commander will allocate the requisite number in accordance with the Ministry of Defence regulations.