HC Deb 14 July 1997 vol 298 cc60-1W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many claims and what sum in total has been paid(a) to the United Kingdom Government and by whom and (b) by the United Kingdom Government and to whom for damage to property under the Agreement regarding the Status of Forces of Parties to the North Atlantic treaty since 1967. [7616]

Dr. Reid

The NATO Status of Forces Agreement establishes a mutual waiver under which Contracting Parties will not claim from each other if the damaged property was owned and used by its Armed Forces. If, however, such damage results from reckless acts or reckless omissions, wilful misconduct or gross negligence of a contracting party, the costs of any liability will be borne by that party alone.

The cost of claims for damage from third parties are shared between the relevant contracting parties on a ration of 75 per cent. : 25 per cent. The UK Government prepare a statement twice a year requesting reimbursement of 75 per cent. of the sums paid in the course of that period in respect of claims from third parties as a result of damage caused by the relevant contracting party. Information on property damage claims is not, however, held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if US personnel based in the UK who are deemed to be on duty are permitted to carry arms anywhere within the UK. [7632]

Dr. Reid

Members of the US forces may carry firearms on condition that they are authorised to do so by their orders.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which RAF bases housing US personnel are(a) regarded and (b) not regarded as part of the NATO network. [7626]

Dr. Reid

All US visiting Forces based in the United Kingdom are available to undertake tasks in support of NATO.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if he will review the Visiting Forces Act 1952 in respect of the limits it imposes on the absolute legal jurisdiction of the United Kingdom Government within the United Kingdom; [7624]

(2) what plans he has to review the Visiting Forces Act 1952; and if he will make a statement. [7628]

Dr. Reid

I am satisfied that the provisions of the Visiting Forces Act 1952 remain appropriate in order to comply with our continuing international treaty obligations.