§ Mr. Roebuckasked the Secretary of State for Defence why a foreign ship was chartered to ferry supplies, transport and ammunition to 45 Royal Marine Commando on exercises in Norway; and whether he will ensure that such exercises are in future serviced by British ships.
§ Dr. David OwenThe Service vessel which had been planned to ferry these items to Norway had to be withdrawn for another purpose. To meet the requirement a British cargo ship was chartered. This ship was delayed and alternative arrangements had to be made at short notice. A British ship would have been used had a suitable one been available.
§ Mr. Roebuckasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement about the failure to supply adequately from Great Britain 45 Royal Marine Commando now on exercises in Norway.
§ Dr. David OwenThe Commando carried with it sufficient supplies for initial requirements; further stores have been flown and shipped from the United Kingdom and no major problems have arisen from the slight delay in the planned time of arrival of the stores.
§ Mr. Roebuckasked the Secretary of State for Defence on what date a squadron of Royal Navy helicopters was due to join 45 Royal Marine Commando on exercises in Norway; when they are now expected to arrive; and what is the reason for the delay.
§ Dr. David OwenThese helicopters, which were originally due in Norway on Thursday, 15th January, arrived there by the following Monday. It was necessary to make revised arrangements for their transport, after the vessel planned to carry out this task had to be withdrawn for another purpose.