Written question asked by Angus Robertson (Scottish National Party) on Tuesday, 7 June 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 9 June 2011. It was answered by Peter Luff (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 June 2011 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

HMS Protector

Question: (2) (a) what options there are available to extend the lease of HMS Protector and (b) what estimate his Department has made on the cost of continuing the lease of HMS Protector beyond the current contract.

Answer: The initial three year lease for HMS Protector can be extended for up to another two years. I am withholding information relating to the costs of extending the lease as its disclosure would prejudice commercial interests.We have estimated that the annual costs of operating HMS Protector would be approximately £2.3 million for fuel and £4 million for personnel. Maintenance costs are included in the leasing contract and are not separately identifiable.

Secondary information