§ Jeremy CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the effects of the use of cluster bombs in Afghanistan; and how many of these have been used in the conflict. [11435]
§ Mr. Hoon[holding answer 30 October 2001]: Cluster bombs are the most effective weapon against certain targets and, while that remains the case, they will continue to be used in Afghanistan. As at 29 October, coalition forces had used cluster bombs against five targets: one terrorist camp and four Taliban military installations.
§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his most recent estimate is of the cost to the United Kingdom of the military action in Afghanistan; what estimate he has made of the weekly cost to the UK of(a) current and (b) planned deployment; and if he will make a statement. [11646]
§ Mr. HoonI refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) on 23 October 2001,Official Report, column 114W.
§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what modifications are required to be made to British helicopters in order to enable them to undertake operations in Afghan air space. [11039]
§ Mr. HoonEquipment deployed by UK armed forces on operations is modified as necessary to perform in the environment in which it is used.