§ Mr. McFallTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the current functions of Royal Air Force Machrihanish; and if he will make a statement on those functions which are being withdrawn under his recently announced plans.
§ Mr. HanleyThe primary role of RAF Machrihanish is as a forward operating base available for activation at short notice for United States Navy maritime patrol aircraft assigned to SACLANT. Additionally, the station is used occasionally for training and exercises. The FOB role will remain but the activation time has been extended which will allow the introduction of a care and maintenance regime.