HC Deb 24 February 1977 vol 926 c658W
Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why on some occasions the guard at Buckingham Palace is mounted by the RAF instead of the Army.

Mr. Duffy

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Gosport (Mr. Viggers) on 27th January 1977.—[Vol. 924, c.733–4.] The Queen's Colour Squadron of the Royal Air Force mounts guard on occasions. This provides welcome opportunities for Foot Guards battalions to fulfil other commitments.

Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many men are required to mount the guard at Buckingham Palace.

Mr. Duffy

, pursuant to his answer [Official Report, 22nd February 1977; Vol. 926, c. 549, gave the following information:

Six officers, 72 soldiers and up to 100 bandsmen and drummers or pipers are required: