HC Deb 25 May 1995 vol 260 cc658-9W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde have(a) an adequate supply of fuel and (b) adequate stocks of food. [26252]

Mr. Soames

Yes, although restrictions on the movement of convoys to and from Gorazde have limited the use of fuel to essential tasks.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the date of the three most recent deliveries of mail to the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde. [26251]

Mr. Soames

On 21 April, 28 April and 19 May.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the morale of the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde; and if he will make a statement. [26124]

Mr. Soames

The British contingent in Gorazde is in good spirits and morale is high. Regular contact is maintained with the base and the situation is closely monitored.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde are under water rationing; and if water is available for washing purposes; [26250]

(2) if the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde are under water rationing; and if water is available for washing purposes. [26250]

Mr. Soames

In order to preserve fuel, the water purification plant at the British base in Gorazde is running at a reduced rate and consequently some rationing of purified water has been introduced. However, supplies are being supplemented with sterilised water and adequate stocks are available. Water is also freely available for washing purposes.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if he will make a statement on the(a) leave roster for the Royal Welch Fusiliers based in Gorazde and (b) backlog in the granting of leave to members of the Royal Welch Fusiliers in Gorazde; [26122]

(2) what effect recent fighting in Gorazde has had on the granting of leave to members of the Royal Welch Fusiliers in Gorazde. [26123]

Mr. Soames

Restrictions on the movement of UN personnel to and from Gorazde have caused some difficulties for the leave roster of the Royal Welch Fusiliers. There are currently some 42 personnel with a backlog of leave which they are expected to be able to take before the end of their current tour of duty.