The Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP called on the UKMCC headquarters in order to meet personnel and receive briefings on the U.K.’s naval mission in the Gulf. He was accompanied throughout by Lieutenant General Simon Mayall CB, Defense Senior Advisor Middle East. Commenting on his visit, Hammond said, "The Royal Navy's continued presence in the Gulf is essential to ensuring maritime security and to protect freedom of navigation in this important region. The Secretary of State also met Vice Admiral John W Miller, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, during his visit.