HC Deb 15 October 1969 vol 788 cc391-2
19. Mr. George Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the combined forces exercises in Gibraltar in August.

Mr. Hattersley

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to Exercise Rock Climb, which took place on 7th and 8th August. This was one of a series of exercises conducted by the Gibraltar garrison, and on this occasion 41 Commando, embarked in H.M.S. Bulwark, also participated for the purpose of training in assault techniques. The forces defending Gibraltar included elements of the 2nd Battalions of the Royal Irish Rangers and the Royal Anglian Regiment, the Gibraltar Regiment and 60 Field Squadron, Royal Engineers. H.M.S. Eskimo and R.A.F. Hunter aircraft also participated.

Mr. Jeger

Will my hon. Friend agree that these exercises and the subsequent well-timed appearance of the Navy off the Rock afforded great comfort to the residents of Gibraltar? Does he intend to hold further exercises in the spring?

Mr. Hattersley

I agree only that the intention of the exercises was purely military. If there are further exercises in the spring, or at any other time, they will still be intended to obtain a military rather than a political result.

Sir G. Nabarro

In view of the arrival of virtually the whole of the Spanish Navy off the Rock in recent weeks, is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that British naval forces now available, comprising, I understand, one aircraft carrier, fully equipped, and two frigates, are sufficient to meet any threat to the Rock which may develop?

Mr. Hattersley

I think that all the evidence suggests that we are able to meet that sort of threat, but I do not think there is much evidence to suggest that we might have to.