§ 22. Mr. Wallaskedthe Secretary of State for Defence to what extent recent cuts have impaired the effectiveness of the amphibious warfare capability of the Royal Marines.
§ Mr. SpeedThe planned disbandment of 41 Commando will reduce the number of Royal Marine Commandos by one. We are paying off HMS "Bulwark" six months earlier than planned, which will reduce the number of Her Majesty ships which can be made available in the amphibious role. Despite some loss of flexibility, I am satisfied that the Royal Marines will retain an effective amphibious capability.
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§ 27. Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is satisfied that sufficient means of transport are available for the rapid deployment of Her Majesty's Royal Marines.