The MCMV in the gulf are far more vital to UK interests than an escort - if the Gulf is closed to mines, there is little that the UK or US could do without them. They are an invaluable asset which are of prime importance to UK and Western interests.
HMS ST ALBANS sailed today on tasks unknown too...
the RN is busy, operational and getting on with the job of delivering world class capability across 4 Oceans as we speak. 10% of the Naval Service is deployed, and still dinosaurs with zero understanding of what the Navy does moan from the comfort of their arm chairs.