§ Mrs. RocheTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what criteria are used for deciding which countries retain a British military presence and in which this presence is curtailed or abandoned.
§ Mr. HanleyBritish forces are stationed overseas to ensure the protection and security of our dependent territories; as part of our contribution to the North Atlantic Alliance; and to contribute to promoting the United Kingdom's wider security interests through the maintenance of international peace and stability. These correspond to the three overlapping defence roles set out in the 1992 "Statement on the Defence Estimates". Overseas commitments are entered into, adjusted or ended only after lengthy consideration, and where appropriate consultation, on a case-by-case basis.
§ Mrs. RocheTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the annual costs of retaining a British military presence in each overseas country in which United Kingdom troops were stationed in the last year for which figures are available.
§ Mr. HanleyI will write to the hon. Member.