Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 29 November 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 December 1999. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Monday, 20 December 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what were the reasons for HMS `Ocean's' recent visits to ports for repair; what work was carried out on HMS `Ocean' during her recent visits to ports for repair; and what was the cost of those repairs. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what were the reasons for HMS Ocean's recent visits to ports for repair; [100881] (2) what work was carried out on HMS Ocean during her recent visits to ports for repair; and what was the cost of those repairs. [100882] Mr. Spellar: Seven routine port visits were programmed in to HMS Ocean's recent lengthy deployment and, as with all port visits, the opportunity was taken to carry out routine maintenance and repairs. No visits were specifically arranged for repairs, but two of the scheduled visits were extended slightly to enable routine maintenance checks and some defect repairs to be undertaken while the vessel was alongside. The work carried out included main engine air charge cooler defect repairs and to change a rotating joint on a radar. This work cost approximately £114,000. These repairs have had no significant impact on the operational programme of the vessel.

Secondary information