§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the role of the reserve forces in supporting the regular Army in Bosnia and Kosovo. [117891]
§ Mr. SpellarWe continue to value the significant contribution which the reserve forces make to operations in the Balkans.
The reserves have consistently provided between 10 and 14 per cent. of the manpower for the UK's contribution to NATO operations in the former Yugoslavia since operations commenced in 1995. Currently, reservists represent some 13 per cent. of the UK force in Bosnia and some 10 per cent. in Kosovo; indeed, 18 personnel from the Royal Monmouthshire Militia based in my hon. Friend's constituency have volunteered for service in the Balkans since July 1998.
§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many personnel have been(a) injured and (b) killed, in (i) Kosovo and (ii) Bosnia since NATO land forces have been involved; how many have left the UK armed services as a result of injuries sustained while there; and if he will make a statement. [119151]
§ Mr. SpellarSince NATO land forces have been involved, four personnel have been killed in the Kosovo theatre of operations and 26 in the Bosnia theatre of operations to date. Injuries have been reported in respect of nine personnel in the Kosovo theatre of operations and366W 261 in the Bosnia theatre of operations in the period up to the end of 1999. All figures are in respect of regular armed forces personnel.
Information in respect of the number of personnel who have left the armed forces as a result of injuries sustained in Kosovo and Bosnia is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.