Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 24 April, what commitments have been entered into with the German authorities relating to environmental improvements.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleWe have a general commitment to respect host nation legislation in accordance with the NATO status of forces agreement. The supplementary agreement to the SOFA also provides for such matters as the avoidance of unnecessary exercise damage, the application of German regulations for construction, use of installations for defence purposes and public safety. We are constantly aware of the German authorities' concerns and have issued an environmental protection directive and taken other measures to prevent or minimise environmental damages.