Written question asked by Lord Beamish (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 14 July 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 July 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has been made of the need for the protection of Royal Naval ships from (a) fast attack boats and (b) suicide attacks.

Answer: Mr. Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the need for the protection of Royal Naval ships from (a) fast attack boats and (b) suicide attacks. [183149] Mr. Ingram: Detailed classified guidance on countering these threats has been issued to all Royal Navy and RFA vessels. This guidance is under continual review in the light of the lessons learnt during Op TELIC and developments elsewhere. The Royal Navy's capability to counter fast attack boats and suicide attacks has been enhanced by a range of measures including additional training for ships' crews, the provision of extra close range weaponry, the fitting of night vision equipment in maritime Lynx and, when necessary, the deployment of Royal Marine Protection Teams on Royal Fleet Auxiliaries. Further measures are also under consideration.

Secondary information