§ Mr. GillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence in what circumstances NATO's Joint Sub-Regional Command (Madrid) will be responsible for the operational command of Gibraltar; and if he will make a statement. [20475]
§ Dr. ReidNATO's Joint Sub-Regional Commands, once implemented, will have no permanently established boundaries or areas of responsibility. Regional278W Commanders will be able to propose the establishment of areas of responsibility for particular Joint Sub-Regional Commands in specific contingencies or missions. Such proposals will require the approval of all NATO nations. The defence and security of Gibraltar are, and will remain, the direct responsibility of the United Kingdom.