§ Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Minister of State for Defence what is the present strength of Her Majesty's Armed Forces in the Gulf.
§ Lord BalnielOur current force level in the Gulf consists of an infantry battalion with supporting units, ground attack and fighter reconnaissance aircraft together with tactical transport and long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, and a naval frigate and mine counter-measures presence. This is sufficient to meet our commitments in the area.