Written question asked by Bruce George (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 31 July 1997. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Thursday, 31 July 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: Statement on the replacement of the service currently provided by the Wessex helicopters of No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron.

Answer: Mr. Bruce George: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the replacement of the service currently provided by the Wessex helicopters of No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron. [12473] Mr. Spellar: The two Wessex aircraft used by No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron are nearly 30 years old and are becoming increasingly costly to maintain and operate. At the request of the royal household, we will therefore shortly issue invitations to tender to UK helicopter operators to provide a service based on a single helicopter. The cost of the new service will be met by the royal household from the royal travel grant-in-aid and should provide significant savings.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 12473; 299 c466W;299 c465-6W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Contracts Defence Costs Helicopters Procurement Royal family Wessex helicopters