HL Deb 11 December 1990 vol 524 cc25-6WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will list those governments with armed forces in the Gulf area who have agreed to put troops under US Command, and in what circumstances this would occur.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (The Earl of Arran)

Details of arrangements between the US and other nations contributing to the multinational force are a matter for the governments concerned. British Forces in the Gulf remain under ultimate UK command, but if military action were to become necessary, they might come under US tactical control where this makes military sense.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether United Kingdom forces in the Gulf would be under US command in the event of offensive operations which had not been specifically authorised by resolution of the United Nations Security Council.

The Earl of Arran

United Nations Security Council Resolution 687, adopted on 29th November 1990, authorises the use of all necessary means to implement earlier relevant Security Council resolutions if Iraq has not withdrawn fully from Kuwait by 15th January 1991.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What would be the war aims of United Kingdom and other governments with forces in the Gulf, should military action take place.

The Earl of Arran

The Government aims to end Iraq's aggression by peaceful means. If Iraq does not take the option for peace and withdraw from Kuwait by 15th January 1991, the United Nations has authorised member states to take all necessary means to uphold and implement its resolutions and to restore international peace and security in the area.