§ Mr. LevittTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence in what ways British forces are currently involved in initiatives around the world to reduce the risk of injury from landmines. [64460]
§ Mr. SpellarUK Armed Forces personnel currently provide technical expertise and management skills to support mine action programmes world-wide. The Mine Information and Technology Centre at Minley, established in November 1997, has become the focal point for non-governmental organisations and other Government Departments for information on demining operations and656W provides Mines Awareness training to both military and civilian personnel in the UK. UK military personnel are currently attached to The Mine Action Centre in Mostar, the Mine Information Centre in Kosovo, and the UN Mine Action Service in New York. British forces are involved in mine action activities in Bosnia and provide an Explosives Ordnance Disposal Response Team on the Falkland Islands. We are also planning to second a Colonel to The Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining next year and are examining the possibility of providing personnel to support a further five UN sponsored mine programmes world-wide. My Department continues to explore areas, in conjunction with the FCO and DFID, where the UK Armed Forces' expertise can make a meaningful contribution to humanitarian demining activity.