Written question asked by Lord West of Spithead (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative) on Thursday, 11 November 2010.

Armed Forces: Aircraft

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is the capability of the land-based Tornado to support a British task force operation in the Falklands in the event of an invasion making Mount Pleasant airfield unavailable for British use.

Answer: The Government are unequivocally committed to the defence of the Falklands. I refer the noble Lord to the Secretary of State's comments during the Security Defence and Security Review debate on 4 November 2010 (Official Report, col. 1072W) in the other place. I am withholding further information as its release would, or would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Armed Forces. Our current defence posture in the Falklands is much stronger than that which pertained in the early 1980s. We now have aircraft deployed in defence of the Falkland Islands, currently the Typhoon. We also have a range of further capabilities to deter any aggression.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 3618; 722 c107WA
Session: 2010-12
Related items: Strategic Defence and Security Review
Thursday, 4 November 2010
Parliamentary proceedings
House of Commons
Subjects: Falkland Islands Tornado aircraft
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk