Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether her Department plans to replace in full the existing Border Force fleet of five cutters and six coastal patrol vessels; and whether she has made an estimate of the cost of replacing those cutters and vessels.

The Budget on 27 October 2021 announced funding of £74m over the spending review period for the replacement of Border Force’s current fleet of five Cutters and six Coastal Patrol Vessels. [The full cost of the programme, including beyond the SR period, is being developed]

Reflecting this we are taking steps to initiate a delivery programme which will include a strategic assessment of how best to maintain and enhance these capabilities.

The procurement process will support operational delivery, wider government objectives and value for money. It will be conducted in line with all relevant legislation and agreements and will appropriately reflect the nature of Border Force operations. My officials continue to work closely with the National Shipbuilding Office, which is leading activity on the refreshed National Shipbuilding Strategy.