HC Deb 18 July 1989 vol 157 c79W
Mr. Patrick Thompson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he proposes to make any changes in the Armilla patrol in the light of the continuing ceasefire in the Gulf.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The Armilla patrol will remain in the Gulf area for as long as there is a task to perform. Although there has been little progress towards a permanent peace settlement, there has been a considerable reduction in tension in the area over a period of some months. So long as this continues, we would in future expect normally to deploy only two frigates or destroyers to the region, although a third ship will continue to be suitably equipped and trained so that it can be deployed if there is any increase in threat. This will produce a welcome improvement in the availability of ships for other tasks.

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