§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consideration he has given to the charter of transport facilities for British troops being deployed to Bosnia. [4351]
§ Mr. SoamesNo transport facilities have been chartered to move British troops to Bosnia as this task is being undertaken by the RAF's air transport force. Two US Navy ships have been chartered to move the equipment for United Kingdom forces. Other shipping will be chartered as necessary.
§ Dr. ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what instructions have been given to the members of the armed forces serving in Bosnia who are in situations where alleged war criminals are present. [4352]
§ Mr. SoamesUNPROFOR troops are not mandated to arrest individuals indicted for war crimes by the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. NATO is actively examining how the peace implementation force can help the work of the tribunal, although its principal tasks will be monitoring the ceasefire and the separation forces.
§ Dr. ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning the rules of engagement for British troops participating in the Bosnian peace implementation force. [4350]
§ Mr. SoamesIt is not our policy to comment in detail on rules of engagement. However, I can confirm that United Kingdom troops will operate under NATO rules of engagement which will be consistent with the requirement for self-defence and will ensure that they can carry out their mission effectively.