HC Deb 18 February 1988 vol 127 cc736-7W
Mr. Foulkes

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements he is making for overseas observers to attend the exercise in the Falkland Islands in March; and which countries he expects to be included.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Foreign observers will not be invited to attend Exercise Fire Focus.

Mr. Foulkes

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose, nature and extent of the exercise to be held in the Falkland Islands from 7 to 31 March 1988; what vessels, aircraft and land forces will be involved; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Exercise Fire Focus will practise the United Kingdom's ability to reinforce the Falkland Islands rapidly in case of emergency. The exercise will involve the deployment to the islands of RAF Phantom air defence aircraft, Nimrod maritime patrol aircraft, and a significant number of troops, mainly from the Light Infantry, but with support from the Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers and other land force units. Following the reinforcement phase, there will be some unit exercises to take advantage of the excellent training facilities in the islands.