§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with his NATO counterparts concerning the interoperability of ambulances within the alliance. [10102]
§ Mr. Soames[holding answer 18 January 1996]: My Department continues to explore ways of achieving greater interoperability with our NATO partners, although there have been no recent discussions specifically related to ambulances. In preparing the staff requirement for the replacement medium mobility ambulance, full account was taken of the need to ensure interoperability with NATO allies, particularly with regard to airportability, stretcher and stretcher mountings. My hon. Friend the Minister of State for Defence Procurement announced the order for the medium mobility ambulance on 18 January 1996.