Written Question·Ministry of Defence·UIN 113445

Royal Fleet Auxiliary: Conditions of Employment

Tabled: 20 February 2026
Answered: 3 March 2026

Question

John McDonnell

LabourHayes and Harlington

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the written answer of 4 February 2026 to question 109058, if he will list the RFA vessels where permanent employees have opted in to work a reduced assignment length, other than the RFA Proteus.

Answer

Louise Sandher-Jones
Uptake varies according to operational cycles, but participation consistently fluctuates between nine and 10 per cent of the total workforce. These arrangements continue to support individual choice while maintaining operational resilience.