§ Mr. Charles KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the average number of days a year was in the last five years that the nuclear submarine berths(a) at Loch Ewe and (b) in Broadford Bay were occupied; what change in occupancy is projected; and if he will make a statement. [152753]
§ Mr. IngramThe berths at Loch Ewe and Broadford Bay can be used by nuclear submarines and surface vessels. Occupancy of the berths by nuclear submarines is recorded in hours. The average number of hours per year over the last five years when the berths have been occupied by nuclear submarines is 13.2 hours for Loch Ewe and 2.4 hours for Broadford Bay. Surface ship occupancy is recorded in days. The average number of days per year over the last five years when the berths have been occupied by surface vessels is 48.6 days for Loch Ewe and nil for Broadford Bay. There are no plans to change the usage pattern.