§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the units and numbers of men and women of the Royal Marines, Royal Navy and Women's Royal Naval Service taking part in Artic warfare training in Norway this winter; how this compares with the comparable training in the previous winter; and if he is satisfied with continuity of Artic warfare training for qualified personnel.
§ Mr. WigginThe 1981 Artic warfare deployment consisted of some 2,900 men, composed of HQ 3 Commando Brigade RM, 42 Commando RM, 45 Commando RM and helicopters, combat and logistic support. The 1982 deployment is planned to consist of a total of some 1,400 men, consisting of 42 Commando RM and similar, though reduced, support. No WRNS personnel participated in 1981, nor are any planned to do so this winter. The training remains at the previous high standard for the smaller numbers who will receive it.