A HAMPSHIRE military base is set to be the scene of intense activity after a war warning issued by the Prime Minister.

Tony Blair has told the armed forces to prepare for possible military action against Iraq if Saddam Hussein fails to comply with weapons inspections.

Marchwood Military Port is likely to play a key role in any war against the Iraqi dictator.

The huge base on Southampton Water is used by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), a civilian-manned fleet owned by the Ministry of Defence.

Tankers and other RFA vessels keep British warships supplied with all the fuel, food and ammunition they need while serving away from the UK.

Much of the equipment used during the Falklands War in 1982 began its journey to the South Atlantic from Marchwood. It was also the main forwarding point for supplies and ammunition used during the Gulf War.

Now the base could mark its 60th anniversary in 2003 by becoming a major embarkation point for the third time in 21 years.

A decision on whether Britain and America will go to war with Iraq is likely to be taken on or shortly after January 27.

That is the day chief United Nations weapons inspector Hans Blix will make a full report to the Security Council on Iraqi co-operation.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said increasing talk of war against Saddam Hussein was "speculation" and insisted that no timetable had been drawn up.

He added: "Nothing is set in stone - we don't know what will happen or when. It's impossible to say what role Marchwood would play."

Dr Julian Lewis, MP for New Forest East, said: "The recent announcement that the Ministry of Defence is chartering extra roll-on, roll-off ferries has major implications for Marchwood.

"It was from Marchwood that troops set sail for the Gulf last time.

"If we send significant numbers to that part of the world again, I have no doubt that the bulk of them will also leave from Marchwood."