HL Deb 12 February 2003 vol 644 cc124-5WA
Lord Vivian

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action is being taken to limit the destructive effect on morale caused by the cancellation of post operational tour leave due to Operation Fresco. [HL1445]

Lord Bach

The impact of Operation Fresco on post operational tour leave (POTL) is being monitored very closely by all three services.

The cancellation of the strike planned for the Christmas period relieved some of the pressure and enabled most individuals to clear their arrears of POTL.

Every effort is being made to minimise the disruption to the lives of service personnel brought about by this extra commitment to provide fire cover in the event of further strikes. We will seek to maintain our good record in respect of harmony, although plainly we cannot guarantee this for every single unit or individual. The services are also monitoring the impact on career courses and promotion.