HC Deb 25 June 2003 vol 407 c881W
Mr. Sarwar

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many British armed forces personnel are stationed in Iraq from(a) regular and (b) reserve forces. [121304]

Mr. Caplin

As at 24 June, there were 10,250 personnel deployed in Iraq, of whom approximately 1,400 were members of the Reserve Forces.

Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to enable British forces in Iraq to operate effectively under extreme temperatures. [121415]

Mr. Ingram

[holding answer 24 June 2003]British forces deployed on operations in Iraq are provided with guidance for working in extreme temperatures. Acclimatisation and a sensible approach to the working environment mean that personnel can operate effectively. Most of the United Kingdom forces' equipment is capable of operating in high temperatures. However, a number of enhancements have been made to ensure that operational effectiveness is not degraded.

Mr. Jim Cunningham

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the findings of the investigation into the mobile laboratories in Iraq. [121021]

Mr. Hoon

I refer my hon. Friend to my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister's answer on 20 June 2003,Official Report, column 444W, to the hon. Member for Newport, West (Paul Flynn).