Armilla Patrol
Defence
Written answers and statements, 11 February 2003
Hon. Bernard Jenkin (North Essex, Conservative)
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the Armilla Patrol vessel has been on station in the past year.
Mr Adam Ingram (Minister of State (Armed Forces), Ministry of Defence; East Kilbride, Labour)
A RN frigate or destroyer has provided a permanent presence in the Gulf as part of the Armilla Patrol throughout the past year, as it has done continually since 1980 when the Armilla Patrol commenced. This task is currently being met by HMS Cardiff, with support from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker RFA Bayleaf. HMS Richmond is scheduled to relieve HMS Cardiff in theatre on