HC Deb 10 February 1977 vol 925 cc793-4W
Mr. Freud

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many British troops are currently stationed in Northern Ireland; what criteria are used to arrive at this figure; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Robert C. Brown

Approximately 14,000. This figure represents the approximate number of troops, excluding RN, RAF and UDR personnel, currently available in Northern Ireland for operations in support of the civil power, and is calculated from the latest strength returns rendered by each unit and establishment in the Province. The total figure fluctuates continually, owing to normal minor variations in individual unit establishments and strengths.

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