HC Deb 03 July 1973 vol 859 cc227-8
2. Mr. Terry Davis

asked the Minister of State for Defence whether he is satisfied with the protective clothing issued to soldiers who are serving in Northern Ireland.

The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Army (Mr. Peter Blaker)

I am satisfied that the protective clothing provided for our troops in Northern Ireland is the most suitable currently available.

Mr. Davis

Has the Minister seen recent Press reports about the new bulletproof jacket which is being issued to members of the Ulster Constabulary, the Belfast Harbour Police, airport security men and prison officers? Why is he refusing to provide the same protection for British soldiers?

Mr. Blaker

I have seen such reports, which, to put it mildly, have given only an imperfect picture. The reason for the jackets referred to in the reports not having been acquired for the Army is that they are heavier than the fragmentation vest. They leave 30 per cent. more of the trunk area exposed and they do not stop the main terrorist weapon used against the Army—namely, the high velocity bullet. In any case, they would usually have to be worn in addition to the fragmentation vest, which would impose a heavy weight burden.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is concern about the number of head wounds being suffered by our troops and that there is some surprise that our troops do not appear to wear steel helmets when going on patrol?

Mr. Blaker

This is a matter which must be left to the discretion of local commanders. The value of any item of protective clothing depends on the type of dangers faced at the time. The steel helmet appears to give good protection against bombs and rioters' missiles. However, steel helmets cannot stop a high velocity bullet. Further, they can seriously affect a soldier's concentration and mobility and, just as important, limit his field of vision.

Rev. Ian Paisley

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that many of the troops have been assassinated by bullets which penetrated the neck? Is he aware that there is protective clothing for men in dangerous positions which can cover the neck? Will he consider having this clothing provided for the troops in Northern Ireland?

Mr. Blaker

I am not aware of any clothing which will stop a high velocity bullet hitting the neck. If the hon. Gentleman has information about such clothing, I shall be glad to have it. If any hon. Member would care to visit the research establishment which looks into all equipment of this sort, I should be glad to make arrangements.