HC Deb 15 January 2001 vol 361 c37W
26. Mr. Swayne

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what planning capability the EU Rapid Reaction Force will have. [143739]

Mr. Hoon

There is no standing EU Rapid Reaction Force. The EU has a small military staff which will support its ability to take decisions with military implications.

The terms of reference of the EU Military Staff make quite clear that it is not responsible for operational planning. The Nice documents also make clear that NATO will carry out operational planning for EU-led operations that have recourse to NATO assets and capabilities. Operational planning for other operations may be carried out in existing European national and multinational headquarters, such as our own Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ).

30. Sir Teddy Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many representations he has received on the proposed European Rapid Reaction Force; and if he will make a statement. [143743]

Mr. Hoon

There is no standing European Rapid Reaction Force. To date the Ministry of Defence has received approximately 180 letters from members of the public relating to European defence.