§ Mr. Sean HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what training the British contingent of the United Nations transition assistance group receives in peacekeeping operations prior to its deployment to Namibia.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonPrior to deployment, the British contingent to UNTAG (Britcon) underwent a training period during which they practised general military skills, were familiarised with aspects of peace-keeping operations, and were briefed on particular problems that they would encounter in Namibia such as the extremes of climate and the necessary medical precautions that they would need to take. They also practised their primary and specialist role, which is the provision of the force signals unit. In addition, the areas in which they were to operate were thoroughly reconnoitred.
It should be borne in mind that UNTAG is not primarily a peace-keeping force but is there to monitor and supervise Namibia's transition to independence.