§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent proposals have been considered for the use of areas in the firth of Clyde and upper Loch Fyne for minefield practice; what discussions are planned with fishing organisations on these proposals; and if he will make a statement. [27383]
§ Mr. SoamesMine countermeasures actively in the Clyde area is planned to increase later this year following the move from Rosyth to Faslane of the third mine countermeasures squadron and the small ships operational training staff. A series of constructive discussions with fishing organisations on the location of this activity has been held, and further talks are due to take place later this month.