Written question asked by Gordon Prentice (Labour) on Monday, 18 December 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 January 2001. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Monday, 15 January 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, What procedures he has in place to ensure that submariners can be rescued from a submarine in deep water. (Failed OPQ) - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what procedures he has in place to ensure that submariners can be rescued from a submarine in deep water. [143727] Mr. Spellar: Every rescue attempt from a submarine has to be evaluated to determine the optimum solution taking into consideration speed/time and distance. The aim is to ensure that rescue assets are on the scene as quickly as possible. The UK rescue system is based on the manned submersible LR5 which has the capability to operate to depths of up to 400 metres. Our submarines are also provided with alternative escape systems that are effective to a depth of 180 metres.

Secondary information