Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to the Answer of 18 November to Question 87798, whether her definition of a future-proofed replacement capability for the Border Force's existing fleet remains the procurement of (i) five new Cutters and (ii) six new Coastal Patrol Vessels; and when her Department plans to launch that procurement process.

The requirements for Border Force Maritime’s replacement fleet are being developed to ensure the flexibility and adaptability necessary for the vessels to remain effective throughout their anticipated lives. This includes assessing possible changes to the operating environment and technology, alongside ensuring greener propulsion capabilities and the crew accommodation that best supports operations. Further analysis has been commissioned to confirm the best mix and specification of Cutters and Coastal Patrol Vessels that delivers the overall capabilities required.

The key next stage in the procurement process is to initiate engagement with the supplier market including an industry day. This will further inform the subsequent procurement action timeline.