Written question asked by Ben Wallace (Conservative) on Thursday, 26 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 31 January 2006. It was answered by Lord Reid of Cardowan (Labour) on Thursday, 2 February 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

16th Air Assault Brigade

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether assets and units of 16th Air Assault Brigade will be made available for taking part in the US Operation Enduring Freedom.

Answer: [holding answer 31 January 2006]: United Kingdom forces deploying to Southern Afghanistan—including elements of 16 Air Assault Brigade—will carry out tasks identified by NATO to help build the capacity of the Afghan Government, maintain security, and help the Afghanis rebuild their economy and society; they will initially come under Coalition command until Transfer of Authority for Stage III of ISAF expansion to NATO. UK forces will continue to operate under UK targeting directives and UK Rules of Engagement. Throughout, the UK force will operate in pursuit of the ISAF objectives.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 46977; 442 c699W;442 c699W
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Armed forces Armed conflict Deployment Peacekeeping operations Military aircraft Afghanistan
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk