§ Mrs. Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose of the presence of two British warships in Orkney harbours; what reasons Russian 139W ships have given for making a prolonged visit to Orkney harbours; and, in view of local concern, if he will give the reasons for the stationing of a military guard over wreckage which has been washed up on a northern island of Orkney.
§ Dr. David OwenH.M. Ships Wotton and Wasperton have been operating in and around the Orkneys on routine fishery protection patrols. I am aware of no prolonged visit by Russian ships to Orkney harbours. No military guards have been placed over any wreckage in the islands.