§ 121. Mr. Goughasked the Secretary of State for Air what facilities exist for the airborne training, including formation parachute jumping, of the 16th Independent Parachute Brigade; and how far the Royal Air Force transport aircraft are sufficiently available for this formation to operate in its proper role as a tactical unit.
Mr. WardFacilities are available at all times for the individual parachute training of members of the 16th Independent Parachute Brigade; additional aircraft are provided from time to time for collective training, such as the exercises now taking place in the Middle East. The extent to which Royal Air Force transport aircraft should be made available for the operational use of the 16th Independent Parachute Brigade is kept under review by the two Services.