§ Mr. Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is his policy towards the formation of links between Service units and their civilian host communities; whether steps are taken by his Department to publicise such relationships; and whether any other assistance is given.
§ Mr. Wiggin:The MOD encourages the very closest relations between Service units and their civilian host communities. Chapter 6 of the "Statement on Defence Estimates 1982" (Cmnd. 8529–1) outlines the ways in which the Services generally assist the civil community. In addition, at unit level the Services and the local community work and liaise together in each others mutual interest in a wide variety of ways. These local relationships are encouraged and publicised whenever it is appropriate to do so.