§ 16. Mr. Neil Thorneasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the present living conditions of troops on anti-illegal entry patrol in Hong Kong.
§ Mr. HayhoeI believe that those living conditions are reasonable, bearing in mind the operational tasks.
§ Mr. ThorneI thank my hon. Friend for his reply. May I assure him that the hazardous and exacting nature of that duty takes a lot out of those concerned? Will he further consider the matter with a view to making life more tolerable for those involved?
§ Mr. HayhoeI agree that a tough, disagreeable, but essential job is carried out by those troops. I shall see whether 1224 any further improvements can be made—and some are being made now. If we take into consideration the fact that they are living under field conditions, the position is not too bad. There is no great reluctance among troops about being posted to Hong Kong.
Mr. Robert AtkinsonWill my hon. Friend maintain a continuing review of the living conditions of those troops facing the most difficult task of all, namely, those in Northern Ireland?
§ Mr. HayhoeYes, indeed. Again, improvements are being carried out there—although that question is a little distant from the question about Hong Kong.