HC Deb 04 May 1983 vol 42 cc92-3W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he has any plans to use Falklands ponies as pack animals to supply men working in remote sites on the islands.

Mr. Wiggin

The possibility of using the local ponies for this purpose is currently under active investigation.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if any payments have been made to Falklanders for Falkland ponies; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wiggin

No.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many personnel from the Royal Army Veterinary Corps there are in the Falkland Islands.

Mr. Wiggin

Two.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he has made any assessment of the relative speed of movement across Falklands terrain by pony and by Land Rover.

Mr. Wiggin

No purpose would be served — the terrain is extremely varied.