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Airfield Support Services

Volume 454: debated on Wednesday 6 December 2006

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the upgrading of (a) fire and (b) other airfield support services; and what budget has been allocated for such upgrades. (106192)

There are currently no plans for upgrades to airfield fire support equipment, but we continue to fund a number of equipment projects to maintain current standards. In September 2006, the Defence Fire Risk Management Organisation (DFRMO) was established, which brings together the various elements of the Department’s Fire and Rescue services. DFRMO provides a fully integrated and regionally based structure which ensures a more efficient and cost effective delivery of fire services.

There is a phased programme for the replacement of specialist airfield vehicles. Contracts have already been awarded for new aircraft refuellers, aircraft sewage trucks, water demineralistion trucks and large aircraft tow tractors. These will be delivered over the next two to three years. Contracts for other specialist airfield vehicles are planned. The capital budget for the entire programme is £90.1 million for the period financial year 2006-07 to 2112-13.