Britain Outsources Royal Maritime Auxilliary Service

RMAS Warden(click to view full) Serco Denholm Limited was announced as the preferred bidder for a 15-year, GBP 1 billion ($1.75 billion at current rates), Private Finance Initiative contract to provide a wide range of marine services. Subject to ongoing negotiations, the Future Provision of Marine Services (FPMS) contract would see Serco Denholm take responsibility for most marine services throughout the Royal Navy’s three main UK ports at Clyde, Devonport and Portsmouth, and in domestic and overseas waters as well. Serco Derholm would also absorb the current Royal Maritime Auxilliary Service (RMAS). Announcing the proposed new contract, Secretary of State for Defence John Reid said: “Subject to successful negotiations we expect to be able to sign a contract later this year, which will generate considerable savings to taxpayers. MOD will now begin detailed discussions with Serco Denholm on what will be provided under the 15 year contract, which includes harbour berthing and towage, refuelling of vessels, passenger transportation, and buoy and navigation maintenance.” At present, the majority of marine services are currently delivered by Serco Denholm under three Ports’ contracts placed in August 1996 (in-port services), and by RMAS under MOD internal arrangements (out-of-port services). FPMS was announced in 2002, […]