§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many pairs of boots were issued to Her Majesty's forces during the past year; at what cost; and if he will make a statement. [12276]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotThis is a matter for the Defence Clothing and Textiles Agency under its framework document. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.
Letter from M. J. Roycroft to Mr. Harry Greenway, dated 6 February 1996:
I am replying to your Question to the Secretary of State for Defence about the issues of boots to Her Majesty's forces, in my capacity as the Chief Executive, Defence Clothing and Textiles Agency (DCTA).
During the past twelve months a total of 291,493 pairs of boots have been issued to units at a cost of £11,124,643 VAT inclusive. These issues cover some 40 or more different types of boot ranging from combat boots to protective footwear. Within these totals 43,620 combat boots (£3,046,826) have been issued for specific operations, including Bosnia. A further 50,963 pairs of boots (£1,962,916) were issued as part of the recently completed deployment plan to equip HM Forces with the new Combat Assault Boot.
If I can be of any further assistance please let me know.