Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 April 1996. It was answered by Lord Soames of Fletching (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 April 1996 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: If he will comment on the recent failure in the steering system of the atomic-powered submarine `Torbay' in Plymouth South.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the recent failure in the steering system of the atomic-powered submarine Torbay in Plymouth sound.[25395] Mr. Soames: HMS Torbay's electrical primary steering gear failed as the submarine was leaving Devonport naval base on 12 March. Torbay was brought to a controlled stop under her primary hydraulic steering gear, which was activated automatically. She then moved to a mooring buoy and, following successful checks and repairs, proceeded to sea. She remained under control at all times and was throughout accompanied by two tugs, as is standard practice for nuclear submarines in Plymouth sound, although a third tug was made available as a precaution. This was a minor incident with no nuclear or other safety implications.

Secondary information