§ Mr. Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence what guidance is given to commanding officers concerning the type of duties which 18-year-old service men are expected to carry out in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanMembers of the Armed Forces who are aged 18 are considered to be adult service personnel and are expected to carry out all duties while serving in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the minimum age for those serving in Her Majesty's forces to be sent to Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe minimum age for members of the Armed Forces serving in Northern Ireland is 17½. Service men aged less than 18 years are not expected to carry out duties of an operational nature.