§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the agreement with Iraq for the servicing and repair of Chieftain tanks captured by Iraqi forces in the Persian Gulf war; and what conditions he has applied to their use.
§ Mr. PattieNo agreement has been concluded yet, but the Government have given approval for negotiations to proceed with the Iraqi authorities to assist in the repair of certain tanks captured during the war. It is for the Iraqi authorities to decide on the use of these tanks once repaired, but no ammunition is being supplied.