§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence what training the members of the Royal Marine detachment in the Falkland Islands give to the local defence force.
§ Mr. HealeyThe Royal Marine party in the Falkland Islands assists the local defence force in training for home guard duties which includes basic weapon training, and training in minor tactics and communications. Small scale exercises with the defence force are held from time to time.
§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence, how frequently the Royal Marine detachment in the Falkland Islands is changed; and what plans he has to increase it.
§ Mr. HealeyThe Royal Marine detachment is relieved annually. In answer to the second part of his question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave him on 18th March.—[Vol. 761, c.18.]
§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence, what ship is to replace H.M.S. "Protector" in the Falkland Islands area; and if he will give an assurance that this ship will be a naval vessel built as such and not a converted merchantman.
§ Mr. HealeyThe ice patrol ship H.M.S. "Endurance" will replace H.M.S. "Protector" later this year. H.M.S. "Endurance" was formerly the icebreaker "Anita Dan" and is now being converted to R.N. requirements to suit her for the rôle she is to undertake.