Written question asked by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Drayson (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 December 2005.

Somalia: Maritime Interdiction Operations

Question: What contribution the United Kingdom is making to maritime interdiction operations off the coast of Somalia; and

Answer: The UK is not at present conducting any maritime interdiction operations in the Indian Ocean or off the coast of Somalia. We are providing one Royal Navy Commodore and a further 16 staff to the Coalition Force Maritime Component Commander based in Bahrain. This Coalition Headquarters conducts maritime interdiction operations in the Indian Ocean as required. One Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker ship is available to support operations if requested.

Secondary information