HC Deb 12 July 1983 vol 45 cc305-6W
19. Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many military personnel ate currently in the Falkland garrison; and what effect this level of deployment will have on the overall defence establishment.

Mr. Stanley

At present, the Falklands garrison comprises over 3,000 personnel ashore. We are taking measures, including adjustments to manning levels, to offset this additional commitment.

22. Sir Hector Monro

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the standard of accommodation available to all service men in the Falklands.

Mr. Stanley

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said on 28 June, the conditions under which our service men are serving in the Falkland Islands are continuously being improved. The provision of coastels has enhanced the accommodation available, and other facilities for the longer term are being studied.

23. Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what responsibilities his Department will excercise in relation to the building of the new Falkland Islands airport.

Mr. Heseltine

My Department is responsible for formulating the defence requirement for a strategic airfield in the Falkland Islands and allocating the necessary funds and also for the ordering, supply and installation of electronic equipment. The Property Services Agency of the Department of the Environment is responsible for all aspects of construction.