§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the tasking of the two battalions being withdrawn from Northern Ireland. [15356]
§ Mr. SoamesMy right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland announced on 14 March 1995 that 5 Regiment Royal Artillery would be relocated from Drumadd barracks, Armagh, to Catterick. Their role remains the provision of support to the Royal Ulster Constabulary when required, and they will continue to train in this role and to be prepared to move back to the Province at short notice. This relocation has been made possible because of the reduced level of day-to-day support now required by the Royal Ulster Constabulary, and will allow the regiment to rejoin their families and to maintain their artillery skills without detriment to their continuing Northern Ireland role.