Hundreds of jobs across Hampshire have been safeguarded after Government plans to privatise the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) were abandoned.

Many thought their jobs could be at risk if the privatisation moves had gone ahead but MPs, sitting in the House of Commons, heard there was “no enthusiasm’’ for the proposed scheme.

RFA ships, with the Sea Mounting Centre at Marchwood one of its major bases, have become a familiar sight on Southampton Water over the decades as they take on stores, vehicles and supplies in support of the armed services.

Andrew Robathan, under-secretary of state for defence, said: “After a market testing exercise no enthusiasm was expressed for either acquiring the existing RFA flotilla, in whole or in part, or assuming both the capital and operating risks.

“On that basis there is insufficient evidence in favour of changing the current RFA business model, which has served us well for a number of years.’’ Although no RFA staff are permanently based at Marchwood, the RMT union, which has fought the privatisation plans, said hundreds of members live near the port.

The union also warned that selling the RFA to private companies would threaten the reliability and security to naval vessels as the drive for profits and cuts would override the quality of service as well as putting jobs at risk.

RFA vessels have played key roles in recent conflicts around the world, including the Gulf Wars and the campaign to recover the Falkland Islands in 1982.

Steve Todd, RMT national secretary, said: “No more time and money should be wasted looking at the privatisation of the RFA.

“This latest exercise only confirms what the previous review said, that the Royal Fleet Auxiliary is a top-notch service providing excellent value for money and should be left to get on with doing its job for at least the next ten years.”

Meanwhile, the Marchwood military port remains at the centre of speculation following the announcement that the 300 acre site could change hands within the next four years.