RAF INFLIGHT REFUELLING FLEET

Early day motion 282, tabled 15 December 2003 by Frank Cook (Labour). Signed by 21 members.

That this House recognises the urgency of the need to upgrade as soon as ever possible the competence of the Royal Air Force to refuel inflight and at considerable distance the full range of its aircraft requiring such airborne support; appreciates fully the simultaneous advantages to be gained by ferrying additional supplies of aviation fuel to be safely stockpiled at locations closer to the central area of operational activity; realises consequently how essential it is that a newer and more capable airborne tanker fleet is acquired and brought into service at the earliest date; and calls therefore upon Her Majesty's Government to focus its assessment procedures on procuring as soon as possible the vehicle with the highest operational capability, the most reliable low risk front line service delivery competence, the widest choice and flexibility in terms of customisation, the best prospects for British industry and the brightest hopes for future growth potential, not just in the interest of national defence but also to the benefit of our national economy.

Signatures by party: Labour 15, Labour/Co-operative 3, Conservative 1, DUP 1, Liberal Democrat 1.