§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what mechanisms exist for servicemen and women on operations to raise concerns and complaints about their welfare; and if he will make a statement. [101592]
§ Dr. MoonieThe provision of operational and non-operational welfare support to Service personnel and their families is a high priority within the Armed Forces personnel strategy and in particular during operational deployments. Welfare is part of the unit commander's responsibility, supported by welfare staff both within the operational theatre and at home. There are a number of avenues through which a Service person can raise a welfare concern. These include the officer commanding their unit or section, the Chaplain and medical staff. The specific procedures, which apply equally to operational and non-operational duty, are publicised to Service personnel through normal briefing arrangements. Welfare support is also available to the families at home.
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 HMS GRAFTON (Chinhae 11 to 13 October) Nil HMS CORNWALL (Pusan 31 August to 4 September) Nil Nil HMS GRAFTON (Pusan 13 to 17 October) HMS NEWCASTLE (Pusan 31 August to 4 September) RFA FORT VICTORIA (Pusan 31 August to 4 September) RFA FORT VICTORIA (Pohang 15 September)