Written question asked by Tobias Ellwood (Conservative) on Tuesday, 27 March 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 April 2007. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 16 April 2007 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Iraq: Territorial Waters

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what helicopter support is available to support British Marines operating in Iraqi waters as part of operations conducted in pursuance of UN Security Council Resolution 1723.

Answer: It is not possible to provide the number of helicopters available to support British Marines operating in Iraqi waters as to do so would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness and security of our armed forces. There are sufficient numbers of helicopters in theatre, all of which may be deployed in their specific role in support of marine operations if necessary. British forces are also able to call on the support of coalition assets as part of Multi National Forces Iraq if required.

Secondary information