Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Chris Bryant (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 30 October 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Armed Forces (Resourcing)

Question: Experience of the armed forces parliamentary scheme suggests that the British armed forces will do their level best to meet every commitment that we throw at them. Although I disagree with the view that are armed forces are at overstretch, it seems clear that they are at stretch and have been for some considerable time. Would it not ease matters if we drew down our remaining troops in Bosnia, now that the majority of that task is complete, and if some of our European allies took a more forthright role—in particular, if German troops took on a combat role?

Answer: On Bosnia, we are looking at that very possibility in the context of EUFOR—the European force that is there—and its command and control. I am confident that, in or about next spring, we will be able to do just what he is urging upon me.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 451 c13
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Armed forces Bosnia and Herzegovina EUFOR Staff Defence equipment Finance
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk