HC Deb 10 July 1980 vol 988 cc298-9W
Mr. Cartwcenter

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he is currently considering for the restoration of a parachute assault capability to enable United Kingdom Forces to operate outside the NATO area; what is the approximate cost involved; and when a decision is likely to be announced.

Mr. Hayhoe

The restoration of a limited assault parachute capability is one of a number of possible enhancements, attainable at modest cost, to the ability of existing United Kingdom forces to operate world-wide which is currently under consideration. No decision has yet been reached on the implementation of these measures.