§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much funding he is providing for the establishment of a Role 3 field hospital in partnership with the Netherlands; and if he will make a statement. [11781]
§ Dr. MoonieWe are not making any funding available specifically to establish a Role 3 field hospital in partnership with the Netherlands. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Netherlands setting out arrangements for the joint provision of an integrated Role 3 medical unit on future peacekeeping, peace enforcement or humanitarian relief operations in which both nations wish to participate. The aim is to make sensible and cost-effective use of valuable medical resources and avoid duplication of medical support. Existing resources will be used and the integrated Role 3 unit will be formed only when required. Medical personnel of both nations will undertake training and exercises together when possible to develop and foster interoperability.