§ 7. Mr. Matherasked the Minister of Defence what training facilities are now available for Her Majesty's forces in the Persian Gulf; and what training has been carried out.
§ 38. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Minister of State for Defence whether he will make a statement about Her Majesty's forces stationed, and training, in the Gulf.
§ Lord BalnielSince the formation of the United Arab Emirates, we have carried out one infantry and one Royal Engineer exercise; two naval visits have taken place and two survey vessels have been working in the Gulf. In addition, Royal Air Force aircraft have made regular use of Gulf airfields. A full programme of similar activities is planned for the rest of the year. Apart from a field firing range, made available by the Union Defence Force, no special training facilities are required. Stationed in the Gulf we have a Military Advisory Team which, together with personnel on loan to the local Rulers, provide valuable assistance to the forces of the UAE.