Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 14 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 November 2000. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Monday, 27 November 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what types of vessels will be built by Swan Hunter and BAE Systems Marine as a result of the Alternative Landing Ships Logistic contract; what time is set for successful completion of the programme; and if he will make a statement. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what types of vessels will be built by Swan Hunter and BAE Systems Marine as a result of the Alternative Landing Ships Logistic contract; what time is set for successful completion of the programme; and if he will make a statement. [138981] Mr. Hoon: The Alternative Landing Ships Logistic (ALSL) are new amphibious landing ships. They are designed to deploy troops, with vehicles and stores, directly into the operational area. They will operate in conjunction with the new landing platform dock ships and the helicopter landing platform. ALSLs will also be suitable for low intensity operations and for humanitarian and disaster relief missions. They will be operated by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and replace the capability provided by current aging landing ships. Negotiations are currently taking place with both contractors and we are aiming to bring the ships into service between autumn 2004 and summer 2006.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 357 c424W; 138981
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Contracts Armed forces Deployment Humanitarian aid Procurement Aircraft carriers Royal Fleet Auxiliary Amphibious warships
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk