§ Angus RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what deployment is planned for the King's Own Scottish Borderers after their tour of duty in Iraq; what timetable is projected for their transfer from their current deployment to their next deployment; and if he will make a statement. [133652]
§ Mr. IngramFollowing their tour in Iraq, one Battalion The King's Own Scottish Borderers personnel should return to Catterick by 1 November 2003. They will conduct an Arms Plot move from Catterick to Omagh (Northern Ireland) during January 2004, on completion of which they will assume operational responsibilities in Northern Ireland; this will be a two year residential and accompanied tour. Pre-deployment training for Northern Ireland begins on 10 November. Post Operational Tour Leave (POTL) will not be affected as steps have been taken to ensure that individuals can take POTL in a reasonable timeframe and within the constraints imposed by their Training commitments and Arms Plot move.