HC Deb 12 November 1996 vol 285 cc112-3W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Gurkha troops will be stationed in Britain as a result of the handover of Hong Kong; where they will be stationed; what will be their remuneration relative to British troops of similar rank; and if he will make a statement. [3205]

Mr. Soames

On the completion of the restructuring of the Brigade of Gurkhas, some 2,000 Gurkha troops will be garrisoned in the UK, including those on long leave in Nepal. On current plans they will be stationed as follows:

  • First Battalion, Royal Gurkha Rifles: Church Crookham;
  • Gurkha Demonstration Company: Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst;
  • Gurkha Demonstration Company: Brecon;
  • Queen's Gurkha Engineers: Maidstone;
  • Queen's Gurkha Signals: Blandford;
  • Queen's Own Gurkha Transport Regiment: Colchester

Three Gurkha reinforcement companies will be allocated to the following battalions stationed as follows:

  • First Battalion, The Royal Scots: Colchester;
  • First Battalion, The Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment: Canterbury;
  • Second Battalion, The Parachute Regiment: Aldershot.

There will also be some Gurkhas stationed elsewhere on individual postings or attending training courses.

We intend that the Gurkhas' remuneration will be broadly equivalent to that of British troops of similar rank.

Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many wives and children of Gurkha troops will be returning to Nepal as a result of the handover of Hong Kong; and if he will make a statement. [3206]

Mr. Soames

Between June 1996 and June 1997 some 359 wives and children of Gurkha troops will have returned to Nepal as a direct result of the drawdown. In addition, 74 dependants of those Gurkha soldiers who have completed their service will return to Nepal, and a further seven will return as a result of postings to other units. Future arrangements for married accompanied service for Gurkhas are under review.

Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received regarding the Gurkha troops who will be moving to Britain; and if he will make a statement.[3207]

Mr. Soames

I have received a number of representations regarding the move of Gurkha troops from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom. Possible changes to the terms and conditions of service of Gurkha soldiers are under review.

Back to