§ Mr. RoweTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether any decision has been taken on the future of the continental Territorial Army in Germany.
§ Mr. HanleyThe continental Territorial Army, CTA, which is some 160-strong, was formed in Germany in 1984. At that time, when there was still a real threat from the Warsaw pact and Soviet Union, there was seen to be clear advantage in recruiting reserve forces from among those with useful skills who could be immediately available on mobilisation in the area they are likely to serve. The requirement for Territorial Army units based in Germany has now been reviewed following the changes in the security environment that have resulted from the end of the cold war. It has been decided that there is no longer a need to base TA units in Germany and the CTA will be disbanded with effect from 30 November 1994. Any individual who wishes to continue to serve will be given the opportunity to do so in a United Kingdom-based unit. I should like to take the opportunity to express my appreciation to all the volunteers who have served with the CTA since its formation.