§ Patrick MercerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the roulement of the British forces deployed to Afghanistan. [15944]
§ Mr. HoonUK forces deployed to Afghanistan will remain there for as long as necessary. In the event that a roulement of the current force deployed is required, detailed plans will be made in co-ordination with our coalition allies and taking account of the political and security situation on the ground.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence which United Kingdom ships are tasked to assist the international coalition in Afghanistan; and where they are situated. [16293]
§ Mr. IngramHMS Illustrious, HMS Fearless, HMS Cornwall, HMS Southampton and HMS Trafalgar and Royal Fleet Auxiliaries Sir Tristram, Sir Percival, Fort Victoria, Fort Rosalie, Brambleleaf and Diligence are tasked to assist the international coalition. All ships are currently operating in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many sorties have been flown by aircraft of the international coalition in Afghanistan and for what purpose since the beginning of November. [16292]
§ Mr. IngramUK aircraft have flown over 150 sorties since the beginning of November. These have been for the purposes of air-to-air refuelling, reconnaissance and 297W airborne early warning. I cannot provide details of other coalition members' sorties (either in total numbers flown or by purpose), which are a matter for them.
§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will ensure that the UK military presence in Afghanistan includes women personnel. [16279]
§ Mr. HoonThe composition of any forces deployed on Operation Veritas will be determined by the operational requirements. Depending on these requirements, women may be included in forces to be deployed.