§ Mr. Nellistasked the Secretary of State for Defence what information he has as to the supply to the Indonesian armed forces of 5 Battery Command post processor computer software systems, manufactured by British Aerospace; on what date the end-user certificates were issued; what discussions his Department has had to ensure such equipment is not destined for military use in East Timor; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe Battery Command post processor is a part of the British Aerospace Rapier low level air defence system, and acts as an aid to the Battery commander to enable him to site his fire units in the most effective position. The BCPP is a non-critical part of the Rapier system, and has no use outside the context of Rapier.
I understand that Rapier is not intended to be based in East Timor—in any event, as an air defence system, it would have no role in the current internal security difficulties in that state.