HC Deb 20 July 2001 vol 372 cc712-3W
Angus Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will outline the commitment he proposes making from UK forces, broken down by service and composition of units, to the proposed European Rapid Reaction Force. [5701]

Mr. Hoon

There is no standing European Rapid Reaction Force. The UK has identified a pool of forces and capabilities which would enable it to make a significant contribution to operations in support of the European Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy, where NATO as a whole is not engaged. UK participation in any particular operation, and the nature of our contribution, would be matters for decision by the UK Government in the light of circumstances at the time.

In the maximum scale operation envisaged at Helsinki—a corps level deployment of up to 60,000 troops—the UK component could be around 12,500 strong. Maritime and air deployments of up to 18 warships and 72 combat aircraft could be made in addition.

The pool of forces identified by the UK provides for an element of choice in order to cater for differing operational, political or geographical circumstances. The full details of the forces identified are confidential, but the major elements are as follows:

Land Either an Armoured or Mechanical brigade, each of which could be sustained for at least a year; or an Air Assault brigade which could be deployed for up to six months. Combat Support enabling capabilities such as Artillery, and Short Range Air Defence, and Attack Helicopters could be deployed in addition, supported by the appropriate complement of logistic enablers and national support troops.

Maritime Maritime forces comprising one aircraft carrier, two nuclear-powered submarines, deployment of up to four destroyers/frigates, support vessels; and an amphibious task group, including one helicopter landing platform and submarines could not necessarily be sustained continuously for a whole year.

Air Up to 72 combat aircraft (including Sea Harriers), with associated support aircraft including strategic transport. This number would be available for six months to cover initial theatre entry. For a longer term commitment the total would reduce.

The development of the EU Headline Goal and the commitment of EU member states to delivering the capabilities required are important steps in a wider process of improving European defence capabilities. They will reinforce efforts being made nationally and multinationally, in particular, in response to NATO initiatives and in so doing strengthen the European contribution to the Alliance.

Angus Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if RAF units based in Moray will be part of a UK commitment to the European Rapid Reaction Force; and if he will make a statement. [5702]

Mr. Hoon

There is no standing European Rapid Reaction Force. The UK has identified a pool of forces and capabilities from which it could contribute to EU-led operations in support of the European Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy, where NATO as a whole is not engaged.

The pool includes RAF elements based in Moray.