HC Deb 07 November 1983 vol 48 cc43-4W
Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is his policy concerning the apprehension of intruders in high security defence installations.

Mr. Heseltine

To apprehend all intruders. Subsequent action is a matter for the civil police.

Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the United States military or other authorities will be responsible for deciding how intruders inside the perimeter fence at Greenham common are to be dealt with after the deployment there of cruise missiles.

Mr. Heseltine

At Greenham Common as at other USAF bases in this country the USAF commander is ultimately responsible to his own authorities for the security of his personnel and his equipment. At Greenham Common the USAF security force is permanently supplemented by an establishment of Ministry of Defence police, and when necessary by other additional United Kingdom personnel. At all times any intruders are handled in accordance with United Kingdom law.

Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many American service men will be stationed at the Greenham common base after the cruise missiles have been installed; and, of these, how many will be concerned with the security of the base.

Mr. Heseltine

The number of United States service men will rise to about 2,000 with the completion of deployment. I am not prepared to discuss the numbers of personnel involved with security.

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