§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with his German and Canadian counterparts relating to future training requirements for the British Army; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyBritish Army field training currently takes place at Canadian training areas at the British army training unit, Suffield—BATU——and the British army support unit, Wainwright—BATUW. United Kingdom use of these training areas is covered by a memorandum of understanding with the Canadian MOD and is not due to expire until 2006.
Regular official contact with the Canadian defence authorities makes them well aware of our continuing commitment to training at Suffield and Wainwright and our commitment to ensure that all defence activity is undertaken in the most cost-effective manner.
912WIn Germany, field training exercises are limited to battle group level and below. I understand that the Federal Republic of Germany is considering the establishment of a field training centre in one of the eastern Lander. There are no plans to involve the British Army in this training facility nor are there any plans to increase British training areas in Germany as a whole. German MOD officials are kept informed of our thinking in this area.