HC Deb 09 January 1996 vol 269 cc11-2
10. Mr. Jon Owen Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the evacuation arrangements for British troops in the event of an emergency evacuation from Bosnia. [6348]

Mr. Soames

The NATO-led implementation force, of which the British troops form a significant and important part, is robustly configured and fully capable of ensuring its own defence and enforcing local compliance with the peace agreement, should that become necessary.

Mr. Jones

We are given to understand that the NATO troops are capable of responding vigorously to infringements of the Dayton agreement, but how can that be credible in relation to one of the combatants, Croatia? As our supply lines run through that country, will we not face a choice between turning a blind eye to any Croatian infringements and withdrawing our troops?

Mr. Soames

I am happy to be able to report that there have been very few infringements and firing incidents. Compliance is generally good. Indeed, most of the firing incidents that have taken place so far have been fuelled by an excess of new year cocktails, which in Bosnia can lead to recreational firing of a thoroughly dangerous type.

The general commanding UK 3 Division, General Jackson—to whom I spoke today—assures me that all the British soldiers are in excellent heart, and that they have a clear sense of purpose, a proper military mission and the equipment that they need to carry it out. They are doing a first-class job.

Sir Patrick Cormack

Does my hon. Friend agree that "evacuation" is not a word that should ever occur in the NATO manual?

Mr. Soames

As my hon. Friend knows, members of the Brigade of Guards do not retreat; they advance backwards. There is no question of evacuation. IFOR, the implementation force, is robustly and fully equipped to undertake its job, and it will do that job. It is encouraging that compliance has been very good so far: that is good news, and it means that the operation will be able to take place on the agreed time scale.

Mr. Murphy

Has the Minister seen today's reports that a soldier in the Royal Welch Fusiliers, when captured by the Bosnian Serbs some time ago, was subjected to torture? Is there any truth in that report, and what does the Minister intend to do about it?

Mr. Soames

I had only just heard of the report when I came into the Chamber. I have no reason to believe that it is true. I should add that that regiment acquitted itself with great distinction and considerable courage in very difficult circumstances, and I cannot believe that what is reported happened.

Mr. Atkins

Were not British troops chosen to perform the tasks that they are performing in Bosnia because they have some of the best equipment in the world, and are the best-trained troops in the world? Have not their presence and their activities so far justified the world's judgment in wanting them to be there?

Mr. Soames

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for drawing the House's attention to the remarkable achievements of British troops in Bosnia, where they have worked logistical and peacekeeping miracles in the mud and snow and in a very difficult theatre of war. They have done a marvellous job; they are a huge credit to everyone in the country, and we should all share a great sense of pride in what they have done.