Recognition for The Royal Fleet Auxiliary

Discussion with RFA on board RFA Argus

Now on its 120th birthday, the RFA is made up of non-military merchant navy sailors who support the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Though rarely in the headlines, they play a critical role: refuelling warships, transporting supplies, personnel, and equipment, and supporting humanitarian missions around the world.

With RFA ships maintained in Falmouth, I have become familiar with their presence in the bay. I remember watching RFA Argus depart in 2014 to support the Ebola response off West Africa. More recently, I joined Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard at Falmouth Docks to meet RFA crews and hear directly about their work.

RFA personnel operate in military conditions, often in high-risk environments, but without the same recognition, support, or protections as armed forces personnel.

The RFA is under growing strain. It has taken on many duties once handled by the Royal Navy, yet resources are stretched. Only 6 of its 11 ships are currently operational. Some specialist roles are understaffed by up to 50%. Ageing vessels like Fort Victoria are now out of action, forcing the UK to rely on allied navies. Meanwhile, pay and conditions have fallen behind, making recruitment and retention increasingly difficult.

I welcome recent steps, including a government pay deal, improved conditions, shorter assignments, and a new collective bargaining agreement with maritime unions. But we must go further.

That is why I put forward the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (Report on Commissioner) Bill. The RFA must not be treated as an afterthought in defence policy. If we are serious about supporting our armed forces, we must also back the auxiliary roles with fair pay, safe working conditions, and modern ships fit for purpose.

See my speech in Parliament on this issue here: Parliamentlive.tv - House of Commons